| Climate change presents significant threats for agriculture. Quality wheat is primarily grown in the dry regions of eastern Austria, where yields heavily depend on water supply. In recent years, maize has suffered from drought stress, but possibilities for irrigation are limited. Additionally, climate models forecast longer periods of drought for Austria, impacting cultivation.
One potential solution is developing new varieties with improved drought tolerance. So far, farmers have relied on information from brochures, as there is no standardized evaluation in the Value for Cultivation and Use (VCU) testing of new varieties. The official protocols only record parameters unsuitable for assessing variety performance under drought stress. Currently, yield in dry regions remains the only benchmark, but a precise indicator for drought stress tolerance is lacking.
There is a need for suitable methods to conduct a meaningful assessment of drought resistance. The aim of this project is to test innovative methods, evaluate their suitability for variety value testing, and establish a more sustainable VCU testing process. This study will select three dry locations in eastern Austria. Additionally, a rainout shelter will be used to increase drought stress. The assessment of water retention capacity and the monitoring of soil moisture using sensors aim to provide precise data on the extent of drought, enabling a comprehensive evaluation of drought stress for different varieties and locations.
Modern phenotyping methods, such as near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and drones with specialized cameras, will be employed to record the impact of water shortage on plant health and metabolic activity. In addition to the usual quality parameters, the proteome of the grains at various stages will be analyzed using LC-MS/MS. The quantification of important metabolic enzymes and heat indicators can provide insights into how individual varieties respond to drought stress.
Based on the data obtained, the most suitable methods can be identified. A final evaluation using a SWOT analysis will yield recommendations for cost-efficient implementation in VCU testing. Modern methods for assessing drought resistance within VCU testing will significantly contribute to climate change adaptation and sustainability. Additionally, Austrian agriculture will be better prepared for the future, enhancing food security and competitiveness. |