Multivariate Analysis to Evaluate the Effectiveness of using Diluted Seawater to Increase Wheat’s Resistance to Ionic Stress

Background: Freshwater scarcity is increasingly threatening sustainable agricultural production, highlighting the need for alternative irrigation resources. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of irrigation with phosphate-enriched diluted seawater on wheat resilience to stressful conditions. Methods: Nine diluted seawaters (DSW) with or without two levels of phosphate (50T and 90T): Control (freshwater), W10 (10% of seawater), W20 (20% of seawater), W40 (40% of seawater), W10T50, W10T90, W20T50, W20T90, W10T90, W40T50, W40T90 were used to study the germination, growth and physiological responses of wheat plants. Physical and chemical quality of the DSW were also estimated to assess their potential agronomic impact. Result: The results indicated that the treated DSW used presented a notable permeability index, kelly’s index with low hardness. No significant differences were observed in germination traits under W10, W20 and W40 treatments compared to control. The aerial biomass was significantly (p less than 0.05) reduced, while root part was significantly increased under all treatments. Application of phosphate to W10 and W20 increased the chlorophyll pigments (+40%), the relative water content exceeded 93% and decreased electrolytes leakage (76%). Heatmap and PCA analysis identified three clusters: (A) related to germination traits under C, W10 and W10T treatments and carbonate ions, (B) physiological traits under W20 and W20T and (C) osmotic adjustment markers phosphorus ions. Therefore, diluted seawater enriched with phosphate may serve as a viable solution for water scarcity and soil health in arid regions.