Field Crop 2024, Vol.7, No.4, 201-211 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/fc 203 2.1.2 Factors affecting yield Several factors influence the yield of both triticale and wheat. Drought significantly reduces the yield of wheat, with continuous drought stress causing a more substantial yield reduction compared to terminal drought stress (Wan et al., 2022). Soil organic matter (SOM) also plays a crucial role in yield potential, with higher concentrations of soil organic carbon (SOC) being associated with increased yields, although the benefits level off at around 2% SOC (Oldfield et al., 2018). Furthermore, the initial soil nutrient status, particularly phosphorus (P) and potassium (K), significantly affects wheat yield, with better soil health leading to higher productivity (Li et al., 2022). 2.2 Adaptability to different environments 2.2.1 Climate resilience Triticale has shown a more stable response to varying environmental conditions compared to wheat, making it more resilient to climate fluctuations. This stability is attributed to triticale's higher photosynthetic rates and better water-use efficiency, which contribute to its higher yield under different environmental conditions (Méndez-Espinoza et al., 2019). In contrast, wheat's yield and protein content are more adversely affected by drought, with significant reductions in grain yield and protein yield under drought conditions (Wan et al., 2022). 2.2.2 Soil requirements Both triticale and wheat benefit from soils with high organic matter content. Higher SOC levels are associated with increased yields for both crops, although the relationship is more pronounced in wheat. Maintaining and building SOM is essential for sustainable intensification and improving yield potential (Oldfield et al., 2018). Additionally, soil nutrient status, particularly the availability of P and K, is critical for optimizing yield. Integrated nutrient management approaches, including the use of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB), have been shown to enhance P uptake and yield effectiveness in wheat under various agro-climatic conditions (Yahya et al., 2023). 2.2.3 Water use efficiency Triticale exhibits higher water-use efficiency compared to wheat, which is a significant advantage in water-limited environments. This efficiency is linked to triticale's higher chlorophyll content, leaf net photosynthesis, and maximum rate of electron transport, which collectively contribute to its superior yield performance under both well-watered and water-limited conditions (Méndez-Espinoza et al., 2019). In wheat, optimizing water and nitrogen management practices can significantly improve water productivity and nitrogen use efficiency, thereby enhancing yield and sustainability (Li et al., 2022). In summary, triticale generally outperforms wheat in terms of yield potential and adaptability to different environments, particularly under water-limited conditions. Factors such as soil organic matter, nutrient status, and water-use efficiency play crucial roles in determining the yield and resilience of both crops. 3 Nutritional Content 3.1 Protein composition Triticale and wheat both serve as significant sources of protein, but they differ in their specific protein compositions. Wheat is rich in gluten proteins, which are crucial for bread-making quality. These proteins are divided into gliadins and glutenins, which have been extensively studied for their roles in determining the elasticity and extensibility of dough (Khalid et al., 2023). Triticale, on the other hand, has a varied amino acid profile, which makes it a valuable feed grain. Studies have shown that sprouted triticale grains contain a high percentage of crude protein, with some varieties reaching up to 15.83% (Kassymbek, 2023). This makes triticale a good alternative for animal feed, providing essential amino acids and enhancing the digestibility of the feed (Kassymbek, 2023). 3.2 Carbohydrates and fiber Both triticale and wheat are rich in carbohydrates, which are the primary source of energy in human and animal diets. Wheat grains contain approximately 72.29% carbohydrates, making them a significant energy source (Mustapha et al, 2019). Triticale also has a high carbohydrate content, with a notable presence of starch and
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