Abstract
Two consecutive years experiments were conducted in pots to evaluate the performance of ten wheat genotypes under salt stress. On the basis of different physiological and agronomic traits we identified salt tolerant genotypes, and also found out reliable traits to be used as screening criteria for salt tolerance. To achieve the objectives of these experiments, the effects of different levels of salt stress (0, 50, 100, 150 and 200 mM NaCl) on the different physiological and agronomic characteristics of ten genotypes of wheat were studied following split plot arrangement under completely randomized design (CRD) with five replicates. The results reveal that salt stress significant affected all wheat genotypes and reduced physio-biochemical parameters and agronomic traits, whereas significant increased free proline and Na+ contents in leaves. Among the ten genotypes, Shebam8 genotype was marked as salt tolerant, while Yecora Rojo, KSU106, Samma, Sonalika and Gemmiza9 were found moderately tolerant and remaining genotypes (Maaya, Pawni, samra and Mesri) showed the lowest tolerance to salinity. Genotype Shebam8 exhibited better ionic homeostasis (higher K+/Na+ and Ca2+/Na+ ratios in plant leaves), membrane stability index, leaf area and chlorophyll content Thus, above-mentioned characteristics could be used as screening criteria for salt tolerance. (C) 2018 Friends Science Publishers