Iron deficiency is a common issue affecting plant growth, particularly in calciferous soils where the availability of iron is limited. Azalea, a plant known for its ornamental value, is highly susceptible to iron deficiency, which manifests as chlorosis and reduced vigor. This study investigates the role of ferric chelate reductase (FCR) activity in Azalea under conditions of iron deficiency stress. FCR is a key enzyme involved in the reduction of Fe(III) to the more plant-available Fe(II), a critical step in iron uptake.

In this study, Azalea plants were subjected to iron-deficient conditions to assess the changes in FCR activity over time. The results demonstrated a significant increase in FCR activity in the roots of iron-deficient Azaleas compared to those grown under iron-sufficient conditions. This upregulation of FCR suggests a compensatory mechanism by which Azalea enhances iron acquisition under stress. Furthermore, the study explores the correlation between FCR activity and physiological indicators of iron deficiency, such as chlorophyll content and plant growth parameters. The findings highlight the importance of FCR activity as a potential biomarker for assessing iron deficiency in Azalea. Understanding the enzymatic responses of Azalea to iron deficiency stress can aid in developing strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of nutrient deficiencies, improving plant health and ornamental quality.

Ferric chelate reductase, Azalea, iron deficiency

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