Investigating the morpho-physiological and biochemical traits of chia (Salvia hispanica) to drought stress

Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) cultivation in dry regions like Morocco requires understanding its drought tolerance for successful projects amidst climate change threats. In this context, a study was conducted to assess the effect of severe drought stress on chia seedlings. Under drought stress conditions, growth traits of the shoot part have been significantly decreased, while the root part did not change significantly compared to control conditions. A significant reduction in chlorophylls and carotenoids was noted in stressed chi seedlings. In comparison with control conditions, the predawn leaf water potential and stomatal conductance significantly decreased by about 81.4% and 35.3%, respectively, in stressed chia seedlings, without detecting any significant change in the relative water content. Drought-stressed chia seedlings exhibited significant accumulation of epicuticular wax (approximately 57.7%) on leaves compared to control seedlings. In addition, chia seedlings exhibited osmotic adjustment under conditions of severe drought stress, characterised by a substantial accumulation of proline (fourfold increase) and proteins (85.6%) compared to control conditions. Significant correlations have been established between some traits that interfere with plant responses to drought stress. Nonetheless, thorough examinations of chia's drought tolerance mechanisms are crucial for informed strategies for its cultivation in arid and marginal regions.