Physiological Features of Red Currant Adaptation to Drought and High Air Temperatures

An important requirement for varieties is adaptation to growing conditions. The main indicators of water regime, photosynthesis, and productivity of representatives of different species of Ribesia (Berl.) Jancz. subgenus to drought and high temperatures have been studied. Quantitative and qualitative changes of the photosynthetic apparatus are the response to drought and high temperatures. The ratio of chlorophylls to carotenoids is considered to be one of the indicators of adaptability. The total water potential in red currant leaves depends on shoot growth, leaf age, berry formation, variety, and weather conditions, and it is not the main indication of drought resistance. The ratio of bound and free water and water-holding capacity of the leaves is considered to be a determining sign of resistance to hyperthermia. Red currant genotypes do not possess high indicators of heat resistance. The prospects of using physiological rapid diagnostic methods in breeding for adaptability to destructive factors of the growing season are shown. The representatives of Ribes petraeum Wulf. (“Hollandische Rote”) and R. multiflorum Kit. (1426-21-80) have high levels of drought resistance, making them highly potential for wider growing in (semi)arid agroecological condition.