Contribution à l’étude de la sélection de l’adaptation de quelques génotypes de blé tendre (Triticum aestivum L.) dans les conditions agro-climatiques semi-aride de la région de Sétif

Abstract

In semi-arid regions, where cereal crops are challenged by severe climatic variability and recurrent water stress, identifying bread wheat genotypes that combine agronomic performance, stress tolerance, and technological quality is a major challenge for sustainable agriculture. This study evaluated 34 genotypes, including four controls, using a multidimensional approach encompassing agronomic trials under rainfed conditions during the 2020/21 and 2021/22 cropping seasons, stress tolerance tests induced by polyethylene glycol (PEG-6000), and in-depth technological characterization. Agronomic results revealed significant genetic variability among most traits, with strong genotype × year interactions. Genotypes such as L18, L28, L1, and L20 exhibited high grain yield, strongly correlated with spike number, spike weight, and a short to intermediate vegetative cycle. Regarding drought tolerance, genotypes L21, L28, L13, and L16 showed strong resilience to osmotic stress, with L28 standing out by combining good yield performance and stress tolerance. The technological analysis, based on physicochemical parameters (protein, gluten, moisture, ash) and rheological properties (resistance, extensibility, deformation energy), allowed the classification of genotypes into three quality groups. Group G3, which included L13, L18, and L26, was characterized by medium to high technological quality. The convergence of favorable agronomic, physiological, and technological traits in certain genotypes, particularly L13, L18, and L28, makes them prime candidates for integrated breeding programs. These findings highlight the relevance of a holistic approach to developing more productive and resilient bread wheat varieties adapted to the challenges of semi-arid environments.