Evaluation of cactus pear clones subjected to salt stress

Cactus pear is an important source of fodder for herbivores, though its production affected by soil salinity. This work aimed to evaluate the development cactus clones subjected salt stress as a measure their salinity tolerance. The experimental design was randomized block with 6 replications. Twenty genotypes were used from Active Germplasm Bank, variability in resistance carmine cochineal [Dactylopius opuntiae (Cockerell)] this insect species destroys many stands on farms. One cladode planted per pot containing 12 kg sandy soil. Water 3.6 dS/m applied at 14-day intervals. scored 28-day intervals degree damage cladodes (1‒5) and harvested when they reached score 5, showing 100% (chlorosis dehydration) whole plant. Liso Forrageiro clone took 419 days reach Score indicating greater tolerance Highest dry matter yields achieved Orelha de Elefante Mexicana Africana 51.5 50.8 g/plant, respectively, while yielded only 36.1 despite having similar surface area weight roots these 2 clones. Further studies field involving better-performing seem warranted determine how trial results are repeated field, especially areas where prevalent.