Biochemical and physiological responses to Phragmidium violaceum (Schultz) G. Winter in Rubus L.

In the field studies, samples of Rubus L. plants infected and not infected with Phragmidium violaceum were taken for analysis in July, August, September and October in Eskimalatya region of Battalgazi district of Malatya province, which was selected as the pilot area. The effects of Phragmidium violaceum microfungus on pigment system and antioxidant system against stress in Rubus, changes in total phenol content and the properties of the fungus were evaluated by electron microscope. In our findings, it was determined that Rubus infected with P. violaceum created significant responses against the pathogen with antioxidant enzymes and pigment system that are effective in the plant defense system. An increase was observed in pigment system in July and August, while a decrease was observed in September and October. A decrease was observed in carotenoid content in other months except July. POD, CAT, GR, GST and SOD activity and GSH content increased in all months. SOD activity increased in July and October compared to control groups, and decreased in August and September. MDA content also decreased in July and August, and increased in September and October. Relative water content also decreased in all months compared to control groups. When the data obtained were evaluated generally, it was determined that P. violaceum caused both oxidative stress and drought stress in the plant.