Index of drought resistance in relation to water retention parameters in bread wheat.

摘要

Out of three sets of experiments with 30 wheat genotypes, one set was evaluated under well irrigated while two sets were evaluated under drought stress conditions by developing drought stress at anthesis stage in one set and at maturity stage in other set for two years. Genotypes differed in their responses at both stages of plant growth for all characters. Significant genotype x year interaction indicated differential responses of genotypes over the years. Continued water deficit resulted in reduced mean values and variability for all the characters. Varieties WH 147, WH 147 (U) showed a combination of traits such as drought resistance, water retention and grain yield, while C 306, Kharchia 65 and Hindi 62 showed the least percentage of injury in plasma membranes and better water retention in the leaves. Relative water content and excised-leaf water loss appeared to be the important characters as the varieties having better resistance also had better performance in these characters.