# Variation of Seed Yield and Nutritional Quality Traits of Lentil (Lens culinaris Medikus) Under Heat and Combined Heat and Drought Stresses

## TL;DR

This study evaluates how lentil genotypes respond to heat and drought stress, identifying resilient and nutritious varieties for breeding.

## Contribution

The study identifies lentil genotypes with superior yield, nutritional quality, and stability under multiple stress conditions.

## Key findings

- Heat and drought stresses reduced seed yield by up to 40% and decreased protein, iron, and zinc concentrations.
- Cooking time decreased by up to 54% under combined heat and drought stress conditions.
- Genotypes G32, G3, and G36 showed high iron and zinc levels, while G13 and G30 had low phytic acid.

## Abstract

Lentil (Lens culinaris Medikus) is a critical food crop offering high protein and essential micronutrients. However, its productivity and nutritional quality are increasingly threatened by climate change. In this study, 36 lentil genotypes were evaluated across two Moroccan locations under normal, heat stress, and combined heat and drought stresses. Significant effects of genotype, environment, and their interactions were observed on seed yield, seed size, cooking time, and nutritional quality. Heat and drought stresses caused substantial reductions in seed yield (up to 40% under combined stress), protein content, iron, and zinc concentration, and increased phytic acid levels, which negatively impacted iron and zinc bioavailability. Cooking time significantly decreased under stress conditions, with up to 54% reduction under combined heat and drought stresses at Annoceur research station. Correlation analysis revealed complex trade-offs among yield, nutritional quality, and cooking traits under stress conditions. Principal component analysis and GGE biplot analyses identified genotypes with superior yield, micronutrient concentration, and cooking time stability across environments. Genotypes such as G32, G3, and G36 combined high iron and zinc levels; G13 and G30 showed low phytic acid, while G 15 exhibited the shortest cooking time. These genotypes also demonstrated adaptability across the tested environment. This study highlights the potential of selecting climate-resilient, nutrient-dense lentil genotypes to support breeding efforts aimed at improving food security in the face of global climate variability. These genotypes can be suggested as elite climate-resilient parental lines to support breeders in enhancing lentil yield, nutritional quality, and stability under multiple stress conditions.