Enhancing phosphorus use efficiency in wheat grown on alkaline calcareous soils

Authors : Muhammad Abbas, Muhammad Irfan, Javaid Ahmed Shah, Niaz Ali Sial, Nizamuddin Depar

Pages : 79-88

Doi:10.18393/ejss.1399856

View : 66 | Download : 87

Publication Date : 2024-01-01

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Phosphorus (P) use efficiency is crucial for sustainable wheat production, particularly on alkaline calcareous soils. This study investigates the relative importance of two factors; P acquisition efficiency (PAE) and P utilization efficiency (PUtE), in determining P use efficiency (PUE) in wheat. A field trial with ten wheat genotypes was conducted under two P levels (no P application and P application at 110 kg P2O5 ha−1). Results revealed significant genetic variability in PUE, PAE, and PUtE among wheat genotypes under varying P availabilities. Genotypes MK-4 and MK-8 exhibited superior PUE, making them ideal candidates for soils with differing P levels. PAE played a more substantial role in influencing PUE, with PUtE contributing less to the variability. The findings underscore the importance of improving PAE, particularly for wheat genotypes grown in P-deficient conditions. Moreover, selecting genotypes with lower grain P concentration can enhance PUtE, contributing to improved PUE. These insights can improve breeding efforts and crop management practices to enhance P use efficiency in wheat, ultimately reducing production costs and fertilizer demand, especially in P-limited alkaline calcareous soils.
Keywords : Alkaline calcareous soil, P acquisition efficiency, P utilization efficiency, P use efficiency, wheat genotypes