Evaluation of Chlorophyll and Carotenoid Contents in Tropical Wheat Varieties under Different Irrigation Regimes

Wheat is one of the most important staple food crops in the world. The demand for wheat is expected to rise by 60% in developing countries by the year 2050 due to the increased human population. For the farmers to feed the growing population, the production of wheat must be effectively increased by at least 70%. Despite this threat, the average yield in most wheat-producing regions is seriously reduced by abiotic factors such as drought. Boosting wheat production depends on a higher yield, rather than an increased cropping area. Improving the existing wheat varieties and developing new varieties that will be resistant to water stress is key. This study was conducted to evaluate the changes in chlorophyll and carotenoid contents under two irrigation regimes, to see the effects of their changes on the yield of tropical wheat varieties. The experiment was laid using a split plot with three replications. Two irrigation regimes were the main plot while ten wheat varieties were the subplots. Changes in chlorophyll A and B as well as carotenoids were evaluated. Combined results analysis shows significant changes in all the three pigments when irrigation interval was increased from 5-15 days. While chlorophyll A and B contents increased under 5 days irrigation, carotenoid increased under 15 days irrigation. Chlorophyll A and B were found to be positively correlated with yield in all the tropical wheat varieties. The varieties KAUZ-9, ATTILA-7, and TEVEE’S were found to have better results and were recommended for planting in water deficit environments.