Physiological response of Monimopetalum chinense to light stress under habitat fragmentation

Abstract

To determine the effect of light stress under fragmental habitat on the physiology, this paper investigated the physiological responses of Monimopetalum chinense with different light intensities in the Xianyu Mountains (Anhui, China). The study showed that both weak and intense light brought about by habitat fragmentation could improve antioxidant enzymes activities, and promote electrical conductivity and malondialdehyde content of M. chinense leaves. However, too strong light could inhibit photosynthesis rates, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and ascorbate peroxidase activities. In addition, the characteristics of leaves were affected by light intensity at the fragmental habitat. Specifically, intense light was disadvantageous to photosynthesis and antioxidant enzymes of the species. Our results suggest that the biodiversity conservation of M. chinense is necessary, and that light intensity should be considered carefully when implementing conservation efforts.

Keywords

• endangered
• photosynthesis rate
• antioxidant enzymes
• electrical conductivity
• lipid peroxidation