This study evaluated 12 banana genotypes with respect to salt tolerance during initial growth, the most sensitive stage of the phenological cycle. Plants were grown for 21 days under 100 mM NaCl or under a control treatment without NaCl. Biometrical parameters and mineral contents in plant tissue were evaluated. Six genotypes (Calipso, FHIA-02, PA 42-44, Bucaneiro, FHIA-03 and PV 42-142) out of 12 considered in this study showed toxicity symptoms induced by saline treatment. The PA 42-44 genotype was pointed out as the most sensitive one because it showed the highest Na+ contents in both leaf blade and roots and rizome, besides a 18.5% reduction of dry matter production. The high Na+ contents found for PA 42-44 tissues suggest a low efficacy to extrude and to prevent the Na+ translocation to leaf blade. On the other hand, the Preciosa genotype showed both the lowest Na+ contents and the smallest reduction for dry matter production (0.2%) as well as a low Na+/K+ ratio indicating a salt tolerance strategy by Na+ extrusion.
Musa spp; potassium; sodium; Na+/K+ ratio
