Physiological, Morphological, and Agronomic Perspectives on Conventional Trait-based Approaches for Enhancing Drought Resistance in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Abstract

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) serves as a fundamental component of global food security; however, its production faces growing challenges due to frequent droughts intensified by climate change. This review consolidates existing knowledge regarding traditional and trait-based methods for improving drought tolerance in wheat, emphasizing physiological, morphological, and agronomic traits. Drought stress markedly diminishes wheat yield by adversely affecting plant height, tillering, spikelet count, and grain size, with the most pronounced losses observed during reproductive stages. Essential characteristics that enhance drought resilience encompass strong root architecture, a stay-green phenotype, osmotic adjustment, and increased water-use efficiency. The review examines the intricacies of breeding for drought tolerance, emphasizing challenges including genotype-by-environment interactions and the trade-offs between drought resistance and yield potential. Recent advancements in precision breeding, such as marker-assisted selection, genomic selection, and gene editing techniques like CRISPR/Cas9, are expediting the creation of drought-tolerant cultivars. Integrated agronomic practices, climate-smart agriculture, and international collaborations are essential strategies for maintaining wheat productivity in water-limited environments. The review concludes that a multifaceted approach, integrating conventional breeding, biotechnological innovations, and adaptive management, is essential for ensuring yield stability and food security amid increasing climatic variability.