Abstract
Seven triploids banana genotypes were evaluated with respect to salinity tolerance. Young plants were used for evaluation, because this growth stage is more sensitive to salinity. The genotypes Thap Maeo, Maçã, Caipira, Pacovan, Gran Naine, Prata Anã and Nanicão were cultivated in washed sand and submitted to irrigation with fresh (CEw = 1,3 dS m-1) or saline water (CEw = 11,4 dS m-1) during 21 days, when the experiment was concluded. The growth parameters (leaf area, height, number of leaves, pseudostem diameter) and ions concentration (Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+ and Cl-) were evaluated. Cultivars Thap Maeo and Grand Naine showed the highest reduction of leaf area and shoot dry weight. The Maçã cultivar, on the other hand, showed the smallest reduction of these parameters beside smallest Na+ and Cl- concentrations and high K+ concentration in the foliar limb. This genotype presents, therefore, potential to be used in saline areas and like a genes source for breeding program.
Key words:
saline stress; Musa; potassium; sodium
