Effect of oxidative stress on chlorophyll fluorescence, canopy temperature and total leaf protein content in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under drought during post anthesis period

Abstract

Drought stress induced physiological changes such as chlorophyll fluorescence, canopy temperature and total leaf protein were studied in the present investigation in two wheat varieties viz. WH 1105 and WH 1025. Chlorophyll fluorescence is excellent tool to study stress induced changes in PSII. The Fv / Fm value denotes the injury to PS II due to influence of stress factors. Chlorophyll fluorescence decreased under drought stress in leaves of both varieties from 7th to 28th DAA. Canopy temperature indicates crop water status. Canopy temperature of 31.98 o C was recorded at 28th DAA in WH 1105 and the value is lower in WH 1025. Total soluble protein content was decreased under drought stress in leaf samples. Total soluble protein levels in leaves do not clearly indicate senescence symptoms driven by severe drought at grain filling period.