Evaluating salinity tolerance through physiological, biochemical and agronomical indicators in Mexican wheat varieties, cultivated under field conditions in Cuba

Abstract

Salinity tolerance was evaluated through physiological, biochemical and agronomical indicators in six Mexican wheat varieties cultivated under field conditions in Cuba, in order to recommend those better responding to salinity stress-affected soils. The electric conductivity (CEes) of salty soils employed in the study was 7,25 dS m-1; a soil with an electric conductivity of CE 0,46 dS m-1 was used as control, both classified as Vertisols. To differentiate varietal tolerance degree to saline stress the following variables were evaluated: germination percentage, plant height, root length and dry matter accumulation; relative water content, transpiration, osmotic adjustment, saturated osmotic and water potentials, proline accumulation and agricultural yield. In all varieties, a significant decrease of the evaluated indicators was observed, germination and transpiration being the most affected variables. Due to salinity stress, osmotic and consequently water potentials diminished in every variable whereas osmotic adjustment took place. Proline content increased significantly under saline conditions. Yield showed significant differences among varieties, with values from 4,4 to 5,4 t ha-1. Salinity tolerance evaluation allowed to classify Júpare C2001 as tolerant variety, Banámichi C2004 and Samayoa C2004 as moderately tolerant varieties, whereas Aconchi C89, Rafi C97 and Nácori C97 as susceptible varieties, recommending them in the same order where CEes? 7,25 dS m-1.