Unveiling the Potential: Exploring Root Traits and Their Response to Drought and Culture Condition in High Temperature Spring Wheat Lines for Global Wheat Production Improvement

Abstract Background and aims Global wheat production is under threat due to climate change, specifically from heat and drought, which are the major contributors. This study aims to address the response to drought in CIMMYT high temperature wheat lines, specifically analyzing root characteristics and their association with other parameters under water-stressed and well-watered conditions and different culture systems. Methods The variability of root traits of CIMMYT High Temperature Wheat Lines (HTWL) previously developed against heat stress and 10 Pakistani approved varieties was assessed under different culture conditions and water availability. Results Our findings revealed that the plasticity of the wheat root system is highly pronounced, with the conditions of the rhizosphere exerting a more substantial influence than the genotypic response. Furthermore, a small number of genotypes consistently exhibited desirable traits such as longer root systems and greater root biomass across different conditions. Persistent drought negatively affects root traits and reduces root growth. Conclusions The variation in root traits of HTWL against drought indicates their potential for the development of improved genotypes that can withstand multiple stresses. Furthermore, it is crucial to consider rhizosphere conditions when selecting genotypes, as the plasticity of wheat roots may lead to misinterpretations if rhizosphere conditions are disregarded. Therefore, for the selection of root traits under persistent drought conditions, it is recommended to evaluate a broader range of rhizosphere conditions.