Giant reed genotypes from temperate and arid environments show different response mechanisms to drought

• DOI: 10.1111/ppl.12701
• Publication Date: 2018-02-07T13:42:51Z
• Authors: Walter Zegada‐Liz...; Giammi Della Rocca; Mauro Centritto; Andrea Parenti; Andrea Monti
• Keywords: Arundo donax; Drought Tolerance; Root system

Studies at the root level and how root-shoot interactions may influence whole crop performance of giant reed (Arundo donax L.) under limited water conditions are largely missing. In present study, we illustrate effects stress on some phenotypic traits levels two genotypes (from Morocco Northern Italy) that were reported to have different adaptive hydraulic stem conductivities despite genetic variability species. The trial was carried out in 1 m3 rhizotrons (1 × m) for consecutive growing seasons. As expected, both showed an effective behavior contrast shortage; however, Moroccan genotype a higher leaf potential, lower length density (RLD) thinner roots upper soil layer (0-20 cm), similar control RLD values deep layers (40-60 cm). On other hand Italian opposite pattern; is no drought (DR) diameter reduced layers, thus revealing DR adaptation characteristics between genotypes. This might bring new insights tolerance identifying potential aimed improve integral plant functioning, more efficient use resources, allocation targeted stressful climate change scenario foresees increase periods.