Effect of O3 and CO2 Levels on Growth, Biochemical and Nutrient Parameters of Alfalfa (Medicago Sativa)

The effects of elevated levels (40, 80 and 120 ppb) of ozone and elevated levels (350, 400 and 450 ppb) of carbon dioxide, alone and in combination, were studied on the germinated young tree seedling of Medicago sativa. Parameters related to growth, biochemical and leaf nutrient parameters were measured using standard methods. The results showed that elevated CO2 has an ameliorative effect on the growth of Alfalfa with increased performance in parameters related to production function of the plant. Ozone to the contrary known for its oxidative property induced and changed significantly the photosynthetic nature of the plant. Decrease in chlorophylls content as a commonly regarded biochemical damage symptom was observed in all the levels of O3 treatment. The combine treatment like similar works done in this area revealed that enrichment effect by CO2 seems to contribute to the protection against the O3 induced oxidation. The treatment effects on the leaf nutritional parameters are also evident though statistically not significant.