Work

Validation of the newly developed PlantECG fluorometer against three established chlorophyll fluorescence devices under progressive drought stress in pepper, tomato, and strawberry plants

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Comparing chlorophyll fluorescence data across different fluorometers remains challenging. We compared the new PlantECG fluorometer with PocketPEA, HandyPEA, and FluorPen in pepper (Capsicum annuum L.), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), and strawberry (Fragaria ananassa Duch.) under progressive drought (0-96 h without irrigation). The maximum quantum yield of PSII photochemistry (FV/FM) measured by PlantECG correlated strongly with all reference devices (R2 = 0.72-0.98), although PlantECG slightly overestimated FV/FM under severe stress. The performance index (PIABS) showed greater inter-device divergence, with strong correlations in pepper and strawberry (R2 = 0.81-0.89) but weaker ones in tomato (R2 = 0.59-0.67). Absolute PIABS values differed substantially: PlantECG values were closest to PocketPEA, whereas HandyPEA recorded 2-5-fold lower values. Correlation quality depended on the species-specific rate of drought response. PlantECG reliably tracks drought-induced changes in photosynthetic performance, but species-specific calibration is required before comparing its absolute PIABS values across instruments.

Source: Photosynthetica

DOI: 10.32615/ps.2026.031

Authors: H.M. KALAJI, P. DĄBROWSKI, A. AURIGA

Institution: Warsaw University of Life Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Photosynthetic Processes and Mechanisms

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,140