Adaptation of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L) to drought .2. Productivity and agronomic components

The study was conducted at the experimental station of CNPAF/EMBRAPA, Santo Antonio de Goias, GO, Brazil. The objective was to study the morphological adjustment of common bean to water deficit and its effect on translocation, accumulation of carbohydrates, productivity and its components to support the breeding program directed for regions with water deficiency. In this study three genotypes 'BAT 477', 'Carioca' and 'RAB 96' were used. These genotypes were subjected to three moisture treatments: irrigated, moderated stress and severe stress. The genotypes 'BAT 477' and 'Carioca' presented lower reduction in leaf area index and lower increase of specific leaf weight. This implies maintenance of carbohydrate sinthesis area and less resistance of flux at storage sites. Genotypes presented the same morphological plasticity. Finally, it was verified that genotypes 'BAT 477' and 'Carioca' presented productivity, number of pods per plant and 100 grains weight higher than 'RAB 96' when subjected to water stress.