Contrasting photosynthesis, photoinhibition and oxidative damage in honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica Thunb.) under iso-osmotic salt and drought stresses

Honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica Thunb.) is a traditional Chinese medicinal crop and belongs to the glycophyte with certain salt tolerance. This study aimed deeply dissect its adaptability by contrasting photosynthesis, photoinhibition oxidative damage under moderate severe iso-osmotic (150 300 mM NaCl) drought (19.3 % 28 PEG-6000) stresses hydroponic protocol. Photosynthesis was more susceptible stress than in honeysuckle according drought-induced greater decrease photosynthetic rate. In contrast salt-induced mild PS? PSI photoinhibition, photosystem II (PS?) I (PSI) arose upon stress, indicated decreased maximal photochemical efficiency of remarkable loss their reaction center proteins. However, interaction hardly contributed stability apparatus because finite restriction on electron flow from PSI. Consistent photosystems leaf lipid peroxidation, H2O2 production electrolyte leakage were elevated much confirming honeysuckle. Furthermore, principal components analysis comprehensively showed higher due larger cluster separation stress. As an apparent reason, could prevent tremendous water had capacity dispose accumulated Na+. Therefore, resembles halophytes this respect seems appropriate for planting coastal saline land.