Selection of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Genotypes for Salinity Tolerance Based on Yield and Ionic Attributes Under...

Salinity is a major abiotic stress that limits wheat productivity in arid and semi-arid regions. The present study evaluated 20 wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes, including local and improved varieties, under saline soil conditions (ECe ≈ 6.3 and 12.5 dS m^-1) to assess their performance and tolerance mechanisms. The experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with three replicates. Data were recorded for grain yield, number of spikes per square meter, number of kernels per spike, 1000-grain weight, sodium (Na⁺), potassium (K⁺), and K⁺/Na⁺ ratio. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the genotypes for all traits. Grain yield ranged from 0.51 t ha^-1 to 1.14 t ha^-1, with Bhan 2000, Local, P7, and Sakha 93 showing superior performance, whereas IC15, P6, and IC96 were most affected. A strong positive correlation was observed between grain yield and both kernels per spike (r = 0.75) and K/Na ratio (r = 0.55), whereas Na content was negatively correlated with yield (r = -0.35). Genotypes with higher K⁺/Na⁺ ratios exhibited better ionic balance and salt tolerance. Based on the combined evaluation of productivity and ionic homeostasis, Bhan 2000, Local, P7, and Sakha 93 were clearly identified as the most salt-tolerant genotypes. These genotypes maintained higher grain yields together with optimal K⁺/Na⁺ ratios, reflecting efficient ionic regulation mechanisms. The integrated approach adopted in this study strengthens selection accuracy and highlights these genotypes as promising candidates for cultivation in saline environments and as donor parents in wheat breeding programs targeting salinity tolerance.