Effect and Cytotoxic Influence of High Concentrations of Manganese on the Phenotypic Variation of different Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Seedlings

This study explores the phenotypic responses of diverse chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) germplasms to heavy metal (Mn) stress, emphasizing seedling traits vital for plant establishment and growth. Chickpea seeds obtained from Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology underwent meticulous examination and were stressed with manganese (Mn) supplementation at 200 µM Mn. Germination assays were meticulously conducted under controlled conditions, with data recorded over a 14-day span. Statistical analysis uncovered significant variations among germplasms concerning traits such as seed volume, germination percentage, 100-seed weight, speed of germination, field emergence, shoot and root lengths, seedling length, and vigour index-I. Correlation analysis delineated intricate interrelationships between these traits under heavy metal (Mn) stress. Notably, ICCV 92944 emerged as a superior variety, showcasing rapid germination, vigorous seedling growth, and remarkable stress tolerance. Other promising genotypes include HC 3, BG 267, and SBD 377. These findings offer valuable insights for breeding programs aimed at cultivating stress-tolerant chickpea varieties, thereby contributing to sustainable crop production in contaminated environments.