Comparative Assessment of Growth Parameters in Two Local Wheat Cultivars (Bhouth ۲۲ and IBA ۹۹) Under Water Stress Conditions in Basrah, Iraq

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a vital global food source, increasingly threatened by climate change, particularly drought conditions that adversely affect key growth parameters, including plant height, branch number, and grain weight. This study aims to assess the growth performance of two local wheat cultivars, Bhouth ۲۲ and IBA ۹۹, under drought stress conditions in Basrah, Iraq. Conducted over an area of ۰.۲۵ hectares, the research evaluates key metrics including plant count, branch and leaf numbers, and weight of ۱۰۰۰ grains. Results indicate that IBA ۹۹ exhibits a higher yield per hectare, averaging ۴.۲۱ tons under ۳-day irrigation compared to ۴.۰۹ tons under ۶-day irrigation. In contrast, Bhouth ۲۲ shows an average production of ۵.۲۱ tons under ۶-day irrigation, demonstrating its potential for higher productivity in specific conditions. The weight of ۱۰۰۰ grains for IBA ۹۹ averaged ۵۱.۰۲ grams under ۳-day irrigation, while Bhouth ۲۲ averaged ۵۲.۹۱ grams under ۶-day irrigation, indicating superior grain quality. Statistical analysis reveals significant differences in growth responses, particularly in grain weight and production metrics, with P-values below ۰.۰۵ indicating statistical significance. Additionally, drought conditions resulted in decreased tillering and leaf area, which negatively impacted photosynthetic capacity and overall growth. The findings underscore the importance of developing drought-resistant wheat varieties to enhance agricultural resilience and ensure food security amid escalating climate challenges. This research contributes valuable insights for breeding programs aimed at improving wheat productivity in water-limited environments, essential for sustaining global food supplies.

کلیدواژه ها:

climate change ، Drought ، irrigation ، Triticum aestivum L