SHO‘RLANISH SHAROITIDA G‘O‘ZA (GOSSYPIUM HIRSUTUM L.) GENOTIPLARINING MORFO-FIZIOLOGIK VA MOLEKULYAR-GENETIK XUSUSIYATLARINI BAHOLASH

Abstract

Soil salinity is one of the major environmental factors limiting crop productivity, including cotton. This study aimed to evaluate the morphophysiological and molecular-genetic characteristics of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) genotypes under salinity conditions. Physiological parameters such as relative water content (RWC), chlorophyll index (SPAD), and excised leaf water loss (ELWL) were analyzed to determine the tolerance of genotypes to salt stress. Agronomic traits and fiber quality characteristics were also assessed. Molecular analysis was performed using SSR markers to identify genetic diversity and markers associated with salinity tolerance. The results revealed significant variation among genotypes in physiological and agronomic traits. Genotypes T-1002, T-1003, and Yulduz-2 demonstrated relatively higher tolerance to salinity stress. In addition, informative molecular markers associated with salt tolerance were identified. The findings can be applied in cotton breeding programs for the development of highyielding and salt-tolerant varieties.