Application of Fast Biochemical Stress Markers for Evaluation of Drought Tolerance of Four Common Winter Wheat Varieties

Abstract

The aim of the present work was to compare the drought tolerance of three new Bulgarian common winter wheat varieties (Sashez, Ginra and Gizda) with one older variety Fermer, that is sensitive to drought stress. The sensitivity of investigated varieties to 3 and 7 days dehydration and their ability to recover after a period of 3 days re-watering were evaluated by following the alterations in the leaf pigment content, lipid peroxidation (MDA), generation of reactive oxygen species (H₂O₂) and levels of protective substances (anthocyanins). Results revealed that varieties Ginra and Gizda were the most resistant to applied dehydration, Sashez had medium resistance, while Fermer showed high sensitivity to water deprivation. Variety Sashez responded to 7 days of water deprivation with a significant increase of lipid peroxidation, but after re-watering for 3 days recovered successfully. After 3 days of dehydration, the level of protective anthocyanins was enhanced in Sashez, Ginra and Gizda, while during the whole experimental setup their level was very low in Fermer. Data demonstrated as well that the dehydration-induced lipid peroxidation and levels of H₂O₂ were highest in variety Fermer. The photosynthetic pigments were decreased after 7 days dehydration in all varieties, except in Ginra, and recovered after rewatering. The results obtained in respect to drought resistance and ability to recover after the stress of the investigated wheat varieties will be of interest to breeders for the development of new high-yielding drought tolerant wheat and achievement of sustainable agriculture in water-limited environments.