Salinity alters plant's allometry and sugar metabolism, and impairs the photosynthetic process and photosystem II efficiency in Eriobotrya japonica plants

Hydroponically-grown loquat Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.) seedlings were subjected to salinity (80 mM NaCl) for 82 days. Salinity sensibly impaired the photosynthetic performances of loquat due to both stomatal and biochemical limitations. NaCl treatment altered the light partitioning in photosystem II, sensibly increasing the dissipation of excess excitation energy via non-regulated mechanisms (Omo)-In addition, NaCl altered sugar patterns in loquat leaves, stimulating glucose and fructose accumulation which might reduce the leaf lifespan by promoting events of early senescence in mature leaves. Conversely, the observed impairment of translocating sugars might seriously compromise the development of sink organs, such as young leaves, inflorescences and fruits. Overall, these results pose serious concerns about the possible effect of salinity to the yield of this economical fruit crop and highlight the need for future research to investigate the effect on plant productivity and fruit quality in loquat trees grown under high saline conditions.