Photoacoustic assessment of the in vivo genotypical response of corn to toxic aluminium

Abstract

An open-cell photoacoustic (OCPA) spectroscopic technique is described which can assess genetically rooted differences in the response of live specimens of corn (Zea Mays L.) to the toxic action of aluminium. Specimens from a susceptible and a tolerant inbred line were examined. The differences in their OCPA in vivo leaf spectra were evident and an interpretation is given based on the genetically controlled response of the inbreds to aluminium toxicity. An earlier discrimination among specimens is obtained with this technique than has been possible so far with previous techniques.