Enhancing <em>in vitro</em> growth of wheat seedlings under water stress using biopriming

Abstract

Purpose: Providing food for the world, growing population becomes more difficult with the increase of abiotic stresses due to climate change. The production of wheat, which is a major crop is under the threat of drought stress. The aim of this experiment was to find out to what extent biopriming reduced the effects of drought on wheat (Triticum aestivum L. cv. Slemani-2) seedling growth under in vitro conditions. Research Method: In vitro planted seedlings were subjected to drought conditions using three different watering regimes (normal [control], ½ reduced, and ¾ reduced) after biopriming the seeds with Azospirillum lipoferum, Frateuria aurantia, and Chlorella saccharophila. Physiological traits and growth characteristics were measured. ANOVA was performed according to the factorial layout in completely randomized experimental design with three replications using Microsoft Windows based COSTAT software (version 6.3). Findings: The experiment results showed that biopriming had reduced the effect of drought on chlorophyll concentration and root characteristics, especially under ½ reduced water application. A. lipoferum and C. saccharophila were more beneficial for the seedlings than F. aurantia. Physiological and growth characteristics such as chlorophyll concentration were enhanced using biopriming, hence photosynthesis, root characters, and nutrient uptake. Research Limitations: The availability of previous studies and data on the microorganisms used werethe main constrain in the study. Conducting a study under controlled greenhouse conditions until harvest might provide more information as more parameters will be measured and data collected, especially at the anthesis stage as it is a crucial stage. Originality/ Value: This research provides a possible method to reduce drought impact on wheat crops by suggesting biopriming with new microorganisms.