Author(s): Parichita Priyadarshini, Gopal Kalwan and Pradeep Kumar Jain

Abstract: Chickpea is an important pulse crop grown worldwide for its rich protein content. However, the yield of the crop is adversely affected by various biotic and abiotic stresses. Among biotic stress, Fusarium wilt (FW) caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. ciceris (Foc) adversely affect the chickpea production and can cause 100% yield loss. The plant also possesses defense mechanism to counteract the pathogen attack by employing various morphological, physiological, biochemical and molecular changes during this host-pathogen interaction. The present study aims to understand the physiological and biochemical changes that occur during chickpea-Foc interaction in two contrasting genotypes, FW-resistant (Pusa Green 112) and FW-susceptible (ILC 482). Drastic changes in physiological parameters like relative water content (RWC) and electrolyte leakage (EL) were observed for chickpea genotypes under Fusarium infection. The RWC was heavily compromised in susceptible genotype (ILC 482) and electrolyte leakage was elevated in this genotype under Foc stress. While, no change in RWC and EL was observed for resistant genotype (Pusa Green 112) suggesting a robust resistance mechanism operating in this genotype. Alteration in antioxidant activities were also observed in the genotypes under Foc attack. SOD activity was higher in Pusa Green 112 under Foc stress suggesting an efficient ROS scavenging system present in this genotype. Exaggerated CAT activity in ILC 482 (susceptible) suggests excessive ROS production. Such drastic increase in CAT activity at symptom development stage is a late response to impart protection against pathogen infection. Furthermore, the MDA level was also compromised in ILC 482, suggesting heavy membrane damage due to Foc attack. Hence, the present study provides new insights into physiological and biochemical changes that occurs during chickpea-Foc interaction.

DOI: 10.33545/26174693.2024.v8.i2Sf.607