Potential Of Micronutrient-Based Intervention To Improve Pennisetum Glaucum Resilience Under Salt And Drought Stress

Abstract

Abiotic stress poses a significant challenge to agricultural productivity, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions where Pennisetum glaucum (pearl millet) is a staple crop. Despite its natural resilience, stresses like drought, salinity, and extreme temperatures adversely affect its growth and yield. This study aimed to assess the effects of abiotic stresses on pearl millet and explore the role of zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) supplementation in mitigating these impacts. Under controlled conditions, plants were subjected to salt and drought stress, followed by foliar treatments with zinc sulfate and iron sulfate. Physiological and biochemical parameters, including chlorophyll content, protein levels, phenolic compounds, soluble sugars, and proline, were analysed. Results showed that abiotic stresses reduced chlorophyll and protein content while increasing phenolic and soluble sugar levels. However, Zn and Fe supplementation mitigated these adverse effects, with zinc demonstrating a stronger influence on chlorophyll biosynthesis and protein content. Combined Zn-Fe treatments exhibited a synergistic effect, particularly under moderate stress, by enhancing pigment retention and stabilizing biochemical parameters. These findings highlight the potential of micronutrient-based interventions to improve pearl millet resilience under stress conditions, providing a sustainable strategy for enhancing crop performance and ensuring food security in vulnerable regions.