sev-Bermudagrass adaptation in the Mediterranean climate: phenotypic traits of 44 accessions

Drought Adaptive Strategies in Mediterranean Grapevine Cultivars: Functional Trait Variability

Climatic changes in the Mediterranean area affect grapevine growth and productivity due to an increase in the magnitude and frequency of extreme climatic events. Functional traits of the vegetative stages of grapevines are drivers of stress tolerance, and their characterization may aid in the selection of cultivars showing greater resistance. Our aim was to evaluate and compare the adaptability to hot and arid climatic conditions of two varieties typical of small satellite islands of Sicily (Zibibbo and Corinto) with the two most common grape varieties grown on the main island (Catarratto and Nero d’Avola). The four selected varieties grew in a common rain-fed experimental germplasm repository. We followed seasonal changes in stomatal conductance, leaf water potential and leaf temperature, relating them to leaf water relation traits and xylem structural characteristics of the leaf vein network. We observed significant differences in functional traits and physiological behaviour of the four cultivars. Leaf water potential at turgor loss point was one of the most informative traits, together with midday leaf water potential and midday stomatal conductance. Nero d’Avola, Catarratto, and Zibibbo showed the highest adaptability to Mediterranean summer–autumn drought and heat stress through different physiological strategies; whereas, Corinto appeared more vulnerable. These findings highlight the importance of functional trait analysis for supporting cultivar selection, vineyard management, and future breeding strategies under climate change scenarios.

Aegilops geniculata Roth: Biology, Ecology and Potential Applications in Crop Breeding and Nature-Based Solutions

Evidence highlights the species’ value as a source of drought- and stress-adaptive traits for wheat improvement, plus promising cover crop traits (rapid establishment, stable biomass production and flexible germination behavior) and supports further investigation of Ae.

Phenotypic variability and phenological behavior of Caryocar brasiliense under tropical savanna climate conditions

ABSTRACT This study investigated the phenological dynamics of Caryocar brasiliense cultivated in the northwestern region of Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil, aiming to understand its adaptation to tropical Cerrado conditions and to support its conservation and sustainable management. Biometric variables (height, stem diameter, and crown diameter) and morphological characteristics were monitored and analyzed, in addition to thermal accumulation expressed in degree-days, correlation analyses with climatic factors, and non-linear regression models. The results showed continuous increases in stem and crown diameter, with values comparable to or higher than those of natural individuals, even in young plants, indicating strong growth performance in cultivation. Phenological observations revealed flowering between August and September and fruit abscission concentrated in December, consistent with the local climatic regime. Sprouting showed positive correlations with temperature and precipitation, while defoliation was not influenced by climatic factors. The orchard demonstrated potential for inclusion in intensive fruiting systems, such as high-density planting, an emerging trend in the fruit growing sector. The results highlight the potential for cultivating the pequi tree (C. brasiliense Camb.) in this region, reinforcing its suitability for sustainable production systems and for the recovery of degraded lands in tropical areas. In this context, C. brasiliense shows potential for domestication and use in sustainable production systems, while also highlighting its relevance under climate change scenarios due to its ability to adapt to high temperatures and water-limited conditions.

Phenotypic diversity and selection of promising accessions of Cucurbita spp. from Peruvian germplasm

Ecological adaptation of introduced tree and shrub species in the Caspian semi-desert of Western Kazakhstan

Abstract The introduction of tree and shrub species represents a key instrument for establishing resilient plantations in arid regions. The present study aimed to provide a comprehensive assessment of the adaptive potential of 42 introduced species cultivated under semi-desert conditions in Western Kazakhstan. Adaptation was evaluated using a multi-criteria framework including winter hardiness, frost resistance, drought tolerance, resistance to pests and diseases, phenological traits, and reproductive capacity. All parameters were scored using a standardized rating system, and an integral adaptation coefficient was calculated as the ratio of the sum of actual scores to the maximum possible value. The results revealed substantial interspecific variability in adaptive performance. The highest adaptive potential was observed in species combining tolerance to abiotic stresses, early cessation of shoot growth, and stable flowering and fruiting. The application of an integral index enabled objective ranking of introduced taxa and identification of promising species for shelterbelts and forest reclamation plantings under arid climatic conditions.

Performance and adaptability of Gladiolus cultivars under the agro-climatic conditions of Tripura

This study aimed to evaluate the adaptability and flowering performance of eight Gladiolus cultivars under the agro-climatic conditions of Tripura. The objective of this study was to identify cultivars suitable for commercial cut-flower production in this region. Field experiments were conducted during the rabi season (2023–24) at the College of Agriculture, Tripura. Key flowering parameters, including days to spike initiation, rachis length, number of florets per spike and vase life were recorded and statistically analysed. Significant variations were observed among the eight cultivars for all recorded traits. 'Candyman' and 'DFR Glad-2' performed the best, showing early spike initiation, longer rachis, higher floret count and extended vase life. These results suggest that 'Candyman' and 'DFR Glad-2' are highly suitable for commercial cultivation in Tripura. These cultivars can enhance floriculture profitability and guide future breeding programs in similar agro-climatic zones.