Dynamics of photosynthetic and oxidative stress parameters of two spinach species after short-term low UV-B radiation effect

This work aimed to underline the dynamics of photosynthetic and oxidative stress parameters of ‘Matador’ and ‘Andromeda’ spinach species after short-term 1 and 2 kJm–2 UV-B radiation effect. When plants reached 3–4 leaves growths stage, the exposure to 1 kJm–2 and 2 kJm–2 UV-B radiation was done once for 68 and 136 minutes, respectively. The photosynthetic and oxidative stress parameters were determined 2, 24, 48 and 72 hours after exposure. The stimulating effect of UV-B emerged on the 3rd day after exposure. The positive effect of UV-B was more pronounced for ‘Matador’. The highest DPPH radical-scavenging capacity and the highest concentration of α-tocopherols were detected 24 hours after 2 kJ UV-B exposure, but the decrease in photosynthetic rate was the highest as well. Meanwhile, on the 3rd day after 1 kJ UV-B exposure, the indicators of oxidative stress of ‘Matador’ decreased, and the photosynthetic rate increased. This study highlights that low UV-B radiation acts as an eustress, by awaking positive changes in photosynthetic and oxidative stress parameters of spinach