Abstract

The objective of this research was to evaluate the productive response associate to biochemical indicators and oxidative enzymes activities involved in the water deficit resistance in eight sugarcane varieties (RB951541, RB931011, RB962962, RB867515, RB763710, RB72454, RB863129, and RB92579) grown in the semi-arid regions of Brazil. Compared to all other varieties, RB763710 was superior in the number of stems m-1, mean height, and stem diameter, production of whole plant fresh biomass and stem. When biochemical responses were obtained, all sugarcane varieties had a statistically similar solubility and maturity, regardless of the specific maturity rate of each cultivar. The increase in soluble carbohydrate levels occurred in the most stress-sensitive varieties and the variety RB763710 had the highest proline content. A lower general correlation was observed between the production of fresh biomass of stalks and the enzymatic activity. Among the varieties, RB763710 had the highest enzymatic activities which possibly provided greater tolerance to water stress due to the ability to maintain the redox state in the leaves of plants under water deficit. The study of the adaptation mechanisms of sugarcane against water deficit has contributed to the development and diffusion of genotypes tolerant to rainfed conditions, thus contributing to increased productivity even under adverse conditions, allowing maintenance and optimization of the production chains of sugarcane in rainfed regions.

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