ABSTRACT
Future climate changes are expected to increase risks of drought, which already
represent the most common stress factor for sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)
production throughout the world. It is important, therefore, to evaluate genotypes
for this stress. Our objective was to study yield and yield-related traits under irrigated
and drought conditions in 56 sunflower genotypes of different origin and growth habit.
A wide range of intraspecific genetic variability was present in sunflower, which could
be used to develop new genotypes, more adapted to drought conditions. The highest level
of tolerance was present in local genotypes. Among restorers, the highest level of tolerance
was present in RL-57 (Pakistan), whereas an exotic restorer F-Yu-82 (Spain) showed the highest
yield, along with high drought susceptibility index. Inbred line ORI-9/B (Pakistan) was identified
as the most tolerant line combined with low yield potential, whereas AMES-10107 and AMES-10103
(China) were found to be moderately drought-tolerant lines with highest yield. Selection among
segregating progeny from hybridization among lines with good drought tolerance with lines of
good yield potential may lead to the development of superior inbred lines.
