Effects of NaCl stress on the growth dynamics and protein content of Rhizobium DDSS 69

Abstract

Sodium chloride stress results in an increased lag phase of Rhizobium culture at inhibitory concentrations without affecting either the mean generation time (MGT) or the duration of log period. Irrespective of the phase of addition of NaCl the cells exhibited a ‘critical’ phase. Osmoprotectants do decrease the period of ‘critical’ phase but only if added prior to or along with the addition of NaCl. There is a progressive decrease in the protein content of cells grown under NaCl stress and betaine has no effect on the protein content.