Tolerance Potential of Selected Genotypes of Zea mays L. and Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br. under Drought Stress | Chapter 01 | Modern Research in Botany Vol. 1
Three genotypes of Pennisetum glaucum (IP14599, IP14787and LRNO3) and Zea mays (DTSYN11, LRNO1 and LRIO1) were screened at specified periods of drought stress and evaluated to detect trait signals for drought tolerance. Specific responses were confirmed against drought among all the selected genotypes of both the species. Genotypes of P. glaucum showed high biomass production, increased tolerance index and high plant nutrient content during drought stress. Conversely, genotype DTSYN11 of Z. mays performed better than the LRNO1 and LRIO1 regarding the evaluated traits. Biochemical studies related to protein content, proline, MDA concentration and antioxidants (CAT, APX) accumulation in both the species highlighted that pearl millet genotypes are better adapted than maize under drought stress. The low concentration of MDA and high accumulation of antioxidant enzymes were observed during increased duration of stress, perhaps this provides some extent of osmotic protection and antioxidan...