Molecular studies and the morpho-physiological response of some wild cherry ‎genotypes under drought stress

Cherry (Prunus avium L.) is one of the best fresh fruits, which has a special place and importance in the Iranian fruit industry. Considering the rich germplasm of the Cerasus subgenus in Iran, knowledge of the genetic potential of this subgenus is important for identifying gene reservoirs and developing effective strategies for germplasm conservation. In this study, the seedling of some genotypes in the Cerasus subgenus P. avium, P. microcarpa, and P. incana species was assayed in full and without irrigation conditions performing physiological analysis in response to stress. From a genomic point of view, the genetic diversity of these genotypes seedlings was assessed using simple-sequence repeat markers (SSR). Morphologically, P. microcarpa species showed lower leaf area, height, and diameter compared to P. incana and mainly P. avium. Photosynthesis in seedlings decreased during drought stress, but this decrease was more in Avi-Ala 11 (5,500 µmol CO2 m-2 s-1) compared to Inc-Kho (10,760 µmol CO2 m-2 s-1) and Mic-Kor 3 (10,340 µmol CO2 m-2 s-1). Our results show that both P. microcarpa and P. incana species can be considered drought-resistant rootstock in cherries and a possible genetic source for drought breeders. The results of this research can also help to determine the relationship between phenotypic and genotypic data for the identification of molecular markers associated with drought tolerance.