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Sensor-based evaluation of drought stress tolerance in apple (Malus × domestica)
Project
Project code: JKI-ZO-23-4269 1180, 0310 5891
Contract period: 01.06.2025
- 31.12.2027
Purpose of research: Applied research
Background: The increasing frequency of hot and dry weather conditions, coupled with water shortages, poses significant challenges for fruit production. Perennial crops such as apples are particularly vulnerable to drought stress, including significant yield losses, reduced fruit quality, and increased susceptibility to diseases. In the long term, a lack of water can impair nutrient uptake and the storage of reserves during the autumn, thereby weakening the trees. In order to mitigate these risks, it is essential to understand the variety-specific reaction to drought stress. Objective: The objective of the present project is to investigate the drought stress tolerance of different apple varieties in order to identify physiological and genetic traits that cause increased resistance to water deficiency. The findings should contribute to the derivation of cultivation recommendations and the development of molecular markers for the breeding of drought stress-tolerant varieties.
Methodology: In a multi-year trial, 48 apple varieties from the German Fruit Genebank (DGO) and new varieties on M9 rootstocks are tested annually in pot trials under two irrigation regimes: three plants per variety receive an optimal water supply, while three others are subject to reduced irrigation. The transpiration rate is continuously recorded using the Fylloclip sensor. In addition, wilting symptoms are assessed and analyses of chlorophyll content, leaf temperature, and proline content are carried out. Furthermore, gene expression analyses are planned to identify molecular mechanisms. The trials are to be conducted under controlled conditions.
The expected benefits: The results will enable the identification drought stress tolerant apple varieties and provide data for the cultivation and breeding of more robust apple varieties and the development of molecular markers for the selection of drought-tolerant genotypes.
Section overview
Subjects
- Plant Breeding
- Arboriculture
- Agricultural hydrology
- Climate Change
