3rd Edition Of Plant Science and Molecular Biology World Conference 2026

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of drought stress on two wheat cultivars, Rafha (drought-sensitive) and Najran (drought-resistant), in Saudi Arabia. Given the escalating challenges posed by climate change and water scarcity, understanding the physiological and biochemical responses of wheat to drought is critical for enhancing food security. The research evaluates the application of different concentrations of nano-zeolites to mitigate the adverse effects of drought stress on wheat plants. Key parameters analysed include total soluble sugars, starch content, phenolic compounds, and morphological traits such as plant height and root length. The findings reveal that drought stress increases total soluble sugars and starch content, with the Rafha cultivar exhibiting higher starch levels compared to Najran. Nano-zeolite treatments significantly alleviated the negative impacts of drought, particularly in the Najran cultivar, which displayed reduced starch accumulation under stress conditions. Additionally, drought stress induced a notable increase in phenolic compounds in both cultivars, indicating a potential adaptive mechanism to counter water deficit. This research highlights the importance of employing drought-resistant cultivars and innovative treatments such as nano-zeolites to enhance wheat resilience in arid environments. It underscores the need for further exploration of genetic diversity and adaptive strategies in wheat cultivation to support sustainable agricultural practices and ensure food security amidst the challenges of climate change.