Evaluation of drought tolerance in naturally colored cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) under water deficit conditions

S. A. Khamdullaev; S. M. Nabiev; A. A. Azimov; J. S. Shavkiev

doi:10.15421/0225035

S. A. Khamdullaev Institute of Genetics and Experimental Biology of Plants
S. M. Nabiev Institute of Genetics and Experimental Biology of Plants
A. A. Azimov Institute of Genetics and Experimental Biology of Plants
J. S. Shavkiev Institute of Genetics and Experimental Biology of Plants

Keywords: colored cotton, Gossypium hirsutum, drought stress, agronomic traits, molecular markers, drought tolerance index.

Abstract

Drought stress is one of the major environmental factors limiting cotton ( Gossypium hirsutum L.) productivity, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. Naturally colored cotton (NCC) has gained attention due to its eco-friendly fiber production; ho w ever, its drought tolerance remains insufficiently studied. This study aimed to evaluate the drought tolerance of colored cotton genotypes under water deficit conditions by assessing key agronomic traits and conducting molecular marker screening. Field experiments were conducted under two irrigation regimes: well-watered conditions (4,800–5,000 m³/ha) and drought stress co n ditions (2,800–3,000 m³/ha). The results showed that drought stress significantly reduced boll number, boll weight, fiber yield percentage, and total seed cotton yield across all genotypes. However, genotypes A-800, 011250, and 010108 exhibited higher Drought Tolerance Index (DTI) and Stress Tolerance Index (STI) values, indicating their superior drought resilience. Molecular screening using the NAU1190 DNA marker identified the 220 bp allele in genotypes 011460 and 011250, suggesting its potential association with drought tolerance. The ANOVA analysis revealed significant genotype × water regime interactions, indicating that both genetic and environmental factors influence drought tolerance. These findings provide valuable insights for breeding drought-tolerant colored cotton varieties, contributing to sustainable fiber production in water-limited regions.

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