Biochemical responses of Digitaria commutata and Cenchrus ciliaris to water stress: antioxidative reactions, proline and soluble sugars accumulation

The impact of water stress on antioxidant enzyme activities, proline, soluble sugars, and carotenoids contents found in Digitaria commutata Cenchrus ciliaris plants was investigated. Two different watering regimes were used over a period three months. Water decreased total chlorophyll content plants, but increased content. Interestingly, no change observed the quantum yield PSII photochemistry (Fv/Fm). Malondialdehyde (MDA) to higher extent both species. Enhanced activities all enzymes (peroxidase, catalase, superoxide dismutase) studied, except for catalase roots observed. Proline sugars significantly following exposure. No clear differences between results link drought tolerance with better capabilities anti-oxidative system. Additionally, it is linked accretion osmoprotectants proline when exposed drought.