Characterization of some morpho-physiological responses, seed chemical composition and grain yield in Lentil varieties (Lens culinaris Medik culinaris) under irrigated and rainfed conditions

Abstract

In Algeria, pulses are rain crops and are drought prone during their breeding period, resulting in a loss of yield. To this end, four varieties of lentil are tested for the ir drought tolerance through bio stress indicators in a field trial during the 2016/2017 crop year. Plants are grown under rained and irrigated conditions (irrigation rainfall), from the " stage to the "filling of grains" stage. The results ind icated that drought stress significantly decreased the relative water content ( leaf surfaces ( and grain yield of all genotypes tested (The chemical composition of lentil seeds showed a reduction in starch content ( and an in crease in p rotein content ( Potassium ions and Sodium ions were present at the highest and lowest concentrations (747.91ppm 4.5ppm) in rainfall conditions, respectively, while Ca++, PO4 and Mg++ concentrations were not affected by drought. In c onclusion, the emphasis on bio indicators of water stress tolerance at the reproductive period is of great importance in minimizing grain yield losses and the quality of seeds.