Non-destructive estimation of chlorophyll content of peanuts grown at different soil texture and salinity levels

English (OpenAlex)

Chlorophyll is a significant biochemical component and can be determined in the laboratory (destructive) and using various chlorophyll content measuring devices (non-destructive). In this study, destructive and non-destructive methods were used to determine chlorophyll content and compared in peanut (Arachis hypogaea cv. NC-7) grown under different soil texture and saline water applications. The experiment was carried out in a complete randomized block design in pots using two soil textures (clay-loam and sandy) and three irrigation water salinity (0.7, 2.1 and 3.3 dS m-1). While the chlorophyll contents (Chl-a , Chl-b, Chl-a+b, Chl-a/b) were determined with the acetone extraction procedure, which is classified as destructive methods under laboratory conditions, the Chlorophyll Content Index (CCI) values were measured with the hand-held chlorophyll meter device (Apogee CCM-200), which is a non-destructive method. While irrigation water salinity decreased all types of chlorophyll contents (Chl-a, Chl-b, Chl-a+b) (mg cm-2), it did not cause a statistical difference in Chl-a/b. Linear and polynomial models were fitted between the different chlorophyll contents and the CCI values under different soil textures and saline water levels. Model performances were slightly better with the polynomial model compared to the linear model in all experimental treatments. Since the difference between model performances is small, it is recommended to use the linear model due to its ease of use. In addition, the total chlorophyll content can be safely estimated under saline conditions by using portable chlorophyll meters.