Genotypic variation for cadmium tolerance in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)

Given the limitation of crop production in Cd-polluted areas, the identification and selection of plant genotypes tolerant to Cd stress are of great significance. In the present work, we show the existence of genotypic variation for Cd tolerance in common bean. The laboratory screening of 25 bean genotypes indicated a significant positive correlation of the mean productivity (MP) and the geometric mean productivity (GMP) with plant fresh weight both in control and Cd-treated plants. A principal component analysis further confirmed this variation and, together with other analyses, led to the selection of genotypes G-11867, Taylor, Emerson, and D-81083 as tolerant genotypes. A total of six bean genotypes with different degrees of Cd tolerance were selected, and their long-term physiological responses to Cd (0, 45, and 90 mg/kg soil) were evaluated. Increasing Cd concentrations led to higher Cd accumulation both in roots and shoots, and to significant rises in the levels of the oxidative stress biomarkers malondialdehyde (MDA), dityrosine (D-T), and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-2'-dG). Remarkable reductions in plant hormone levels and chlorophyll contents, as well as in dry and fresh weight, were observed in Cd-treated plants. Among the examined genotypes, Emerson, Taylor, and G-11867 were found to be more tolerant to Cd owing to lower Cd accumulation and lower oxidative stress levels, as well as higher chlorophyll and hormone contents. Our results contribute to the understanding of the physiological and biochemical basis of Cd tolerance in bean plants and may therefore, be useful for breeding programs directed towards obtaining bean varieties showing low Cd accumulation.