Physiological Changes and Yield Components of Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) Lines as a Function of Water Deficit and Recovery in the Flowering Phase

Since climate changes have caused water restrictions, safflower stands out as an alternative crop due to its adaptability restrictive soil and conditions. Thus, this research aimed evaluate the physiological yield performance of four lines (IMA 02, IMA 04, 14, 21) under two regimes [without deficiency—around 22% moisture content—100% field capacity (FC); with deficiency—50% FC]. The were imposed for 30 days during flowering phase, followed by rehydration 20 days. Water deficiency decreased relative content, potential, photosynthetic pigment contents, performance, maximum variable potential quantum PSII, electron transport rate, photochemical quenching. In contrast, it increased electrolyte leakage, use efficiency, non-photochemical decreases in efficiency a function reductions number capitula, 100-grain mass, harvest index, more significant which was considered susceptible changes. 21 tolerant because their variables components less affected restriction, they also showed recovery after compared 02. these can be recommended commercial use, breeding programs aiming select superior genotypes drought