Potential of RGB Spectral Information in the Selection of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Genotypes Adapted to Early Drought and Salinity Stresses

Abstract

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the world's main cereals, with considerable potential for expansion in tropical regions such as the Brazilian Cerrado. However, abiotic stresses, such as drought and salinity, present significant challenges for the cultivation of this species in the region. This challenge can be overcome by selecting cultivars that are tolerant to these stresses. This study investigated the potential of using RGB spectral information from wheat seedlings as a rapid and nondestructive tool to identify wheat genotypes adapted to drought and salinity stress conditions. Seeds from 11 wheat cultivars were sown under nonstressful (control) and stressful (drought and salinity) conditions. The seedlings were evaluated for germination and morphological traits, and RGB spectral images were obtained via a low-cost platform for analysis. The data were subjected to analysis of variance, correlation, and calculation of the WAASB multitrait stability index to identify the genotypes with the greatest adaptation and stability. The RGB spectral information (ExGR, ExR, VEG, RED, GREEN and BLUE) proved to be efficient in the selection of wheat genotypes adapted to drought and salinity stress conditions during the initial seedling growth stage. The wheat genotypes ORS FEROZ and BRS 404 have high stability for cultivation both under nonstressful conditions and under drought and salinity stress conditions. Additionally, these genotypes can be used as parents in crossing blocks to obtain genotypes that are better adapted to drought and salinity stress conditions.