Document Type

Thesis - Open Access

Award Date

1985

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department / School

Plant Science

First Advisor

Frederick Cholick

Abstract

Response of plants to water stress are numerous and interrelated. Morphological traits and growth patterns have been studied and reviewed extensively. Root growth patterns, leaf area and thickness, presence of cuticle hair and waxes, leaf movement, and wilting are only a few traits studied. Metabolic functions and how water stress affects these processes through stomatal behavior, transpiration rates and carbon dioxide exchange rates have also been reviewed. Plant breeders are continually searching for traits which aid in selecting for high yielding genotypes in any one environment. Moisture is often limiting in South Dakota's environment, leading to relatively low grain yields in wheat. A better understanding is needed in how wheat plants respond to drought. This research effort was undertaken to explore the growing habits and osmotic potentials as well as yield and yield components of five spring wheat cultivars (Triticum asetivum L.). All data were taken from field plots grown at Highmore, South Dakota in 1979 and 1980. Relationships between yield components, dry matter weight, tillering habit, leaf area, osmotic potentials and grain yield were evaluated for their usefulness in screening for moisture stress resistant wheat cultivars.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Wheat
Plants -- Drought tolerance
Xerophytes

Format

application/pdf

Publisher

South Dakota State University

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