Effects of aluminium on antioxidative system in native species of the Brazilian Tropical Dry Forest (Caatinga).

Changes in soil resulting from agricultural practices can lead to acidification and the accumulation of toxic elements, such as Al³⁺. In acidic soils, aluminium solubility decreases nutrient availability, causing biochemical and morphophysiological changes that impede plant growth. This study aimed to determine how native species respond to the effects of Al³⁺ and its impact on their persistence in the environment. Soil samples were collected in areas with and without Al³⁺ in a natural regeneration zone. Leaves of three herbaceous species prevalent in the rainy season underwent biochemical analysis. The results revealed that Al³⁺ influenced enzymatic activity in Ayenia erecta, reducing superoxide dismutase and increasing ascorbate peroxidase and catalase. Pavonia varians exhibited an accumulation of H₂O₂ and a reduction in ascorbate peroxidase, while Sida galheirensis demonstrated an accumulation of sucrose and a reduction in proline levels in areas affected by Al³⁺, without changes in enzymatic activity or the accumulation of reactive oxygen species. The presence of 0.31 cmolc/dm³ of Al³⁺ was insufficient to induce lipid peroxidation in the studied species. Overall, the species responded differently to aluminium, impacting oxidative stress and potentially influencing their survival in the environment. These results provide insights into conservation practices and sustainable management in arid areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]