Comparative physiological and biochemical mechanisms of drought tolerance in three contrasting cultivars of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa)

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is a halophytic, pseudocereal crop, which has richer nutritional value than other major cereals and highly resistant to multiple abiotic stresses. In this study, the germination characteristics, morphological, physiological biochemical changes of three contrasting cultivars under drought stress were compared. The results indicated that ‘Chaidamuhong’ ‘Gongzha No.3’ showed stronger tolerance ‘Qingli No.1’. This was mainly manifest in seed index, activity antioxidant enzymes, cell membrane damage morphological changes. We speculate increase many enzymes lower stomatal density make superior release reactive oxygen species water retention No.1’, thus reducing degree damage, improving resistance.