Copper fluorescence based copper toxicity assessment of two grape varieties

Abstract

Chlorophyll fluorescence analysis has become one of the most powerful and widely used techniques available to plant physiologists and ecophysiologists. This review aims to provide an introduction for the novice into the methodology and applications of chlorophyll fluorescence. After a brief introduction into the theoretical background of the technique, the methodology and some of the technical pitfalls that can be encountered are explained. A selection of examples is then used to illustrate the types of information that fluorescence can provide. In recent years, the technique of chlorophyll fluorescence has become ubiquitous in plant ecophysiology studies. This study evaluates the difference in leaf sensitivity of two grapevine varieties, Pannon frankos and Narancsízű, to copper. The photosynthetic efficiency of the varieties was measured as the ratio of variable to maximal chlorophyll fluorescence (Fv/Fm). Young and older leaves of these varieties were exposed to four different pesticides with copper active ingredients in the recommended dosage: Bordói por (copper sulphate), Champion 50 WP (copper hydroxide), Rézoxiklorid 50 WP (copper-oxychloride) and
Ridomil Gold Plus 42,5 WP (mefenoxam+copper-oxychlorid) and their physiology were studied 4 times, on
the 2nd, 4th, 8th and 12th days after treatments. These pesticides caused proportional decrease in the
photosynthetic efficiency.