Summary
This study developed and validated a sodium bicarbonate-buffered hydroponic system to screen sugar beet genotypes for iron efficiency under simulated alkaline soil conditions. Three genotypes with contrasting iron-response phenotypes were successfully characterised, with iron-efficient genotypes (NB1 and NB1×NB4 hybrid) showing over fivefold increases in Fe³⁺-chelate reductase activity compared to the inefficient NB4 genotype. The buffering system did not interfere with iron supply to control plants and provided a controlled platform for phenotyping Strategy I iron responses.
Regional applicability
Sugar beet is a significant arable crop in the United Kingdom, and alkaline or high-pH soils are common in many regions. This methodology could support breeding programmes and agronomic management of iron deficiency chlorosis in UK sugar beet production, though the transferability depends on whether alkaline soil conditions match specific UK field contexts.
Key measures
Fe³⁺-chelate reductase (FCR) activity; H⁺ extrusion; pH buffering range (7.3–6.3); iron availability under +Fe and −Fe treatments
Outcomes reported
The study evaluated iron efficiency in three sugar beet genotypes under alkaline conditions simulated by a sodium bicarbonate-buffered hydroponic system. It measured Fe³⁺-chelate reductase (FCR) activity in roots and H⁺ extrusion capacity to characterise Strategy I iron response mechanisms.
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