Petiole length reduction is an indicator of waterlogging stress for Trifolium subterraneum ssp. yanninicum

Abstract Background and aims The pasture legume Trifolium subterraneum ssp. yanninicum exhibits waterlogging tolerance. This study investigates diversity for tolerance within . We tested the hypotheses that (1) variation exists (2) is related to phenotypic growth trait differences, which (3) reflect eco-geographic variables at site of origin. Methods Twenty-eight diverse ecotypes collected from Mediterranean region four cultivars were grown in a controlled environment glasshouse. Seedling traits measured 14 21 days after sowing. Waterlogged free-draining (control) treatments then imposed 28 days. Relative distance multivariate plasticity indices calculated. Results Under waterlogging, shoot (87–108% controls) root (80–116% relative rates (RGRs) differed significantly among Waterlogging tolerance, as assessed by RGR, had strong positive correlations with RGR ( r = 0.86; P < 0.001), petiole length 0.59; 0.001) leaf size 0.55; 0.01) under waterlogging. proportion biomass increased due being maintained (mean 102% controls), but decreased 84% controls). Petiole was most plastic trait. Seed size, seedling traits, maturity duration origin not Conclusions Wide reduction, an easy-to-measure non-destructive indicator, could be used preliminary selection tool when screening large numbers breeding program.