Exploring variability in root morphological traits of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under nutrient stress

Abstract

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a vital staple crop that encounters significant challenges due to nutrient stress, which negatively impacts its growth, yield, and quality. This study focuses on evaluating the phenotypic traits of selected wheat genotypes under nutrient-stress conditions, with an emphasis on root morphology as a key indicator of plant performance. Ten wheat genotypes were assessed for root length, surface area, and volume under nutrient-deficient environments. Understanding root system morphology in bread wheat is crucial for identifying root traits that can be used to breed cultivars with improved resource uptake and enhanced adaptation to challenging environments. Variability in root morphological traits was examined during the early vegetative stages among ten bread wheat genotypes from different regions, using a hydroponic phenotyping system. The results revealed significant variability in root morphology across genotypes, identifying potential candidates for breeding programs aimed at enhancing nutrient efficiency and tolerance to nutrient stress.