Abstract:

Based on the quality data of ‘Xinmai 26’ (strong−gluten) and ‘Yangmai 15’ (weak−gluten) wheat varieties from six agro−meteorological stations in Henan province during 2021−2023, combined with concurrent meteorological data, correlation analysis was used to determine the relationships between key quality traits of different gluten−type wheat and meteorological factors. Stepwise regression was further employed to construct quantitative equations for the responses of main quality indices to meteorological variables. The results showed significant differences (P<0.05) in identical quality indices among stations for the same gluten−type wheat. Strong−gluten wheat generally exhibited superior quality compared to weak−gluten wheat, with grain protein content being 1.97 g·100g⁻¹ higher, wet gluten content 0.56pp higher, and sedimentation index 24.25 mL higher. Temperature and humidity factors during the jointing−booting stage exerted significant positive effects (r>0.28, P<0.05) on protein content and sedimentation index for both gluten types. Conversely, light intensity during the heading−flowering stage showed significant negative correlations (r<−0.45, P<0.05) with wet gluten content in both types. Specifically, protein content in strong−gluten wheat was primarily influenced by thermal and moisture factors during jointing−booting stage, along with light intensity during heading−flowering stage. For weak−gluten wheat, protein content additionally correlated closely with thermal factors during milk−ripening stage. Wet gluten content in both types responded significantly to light intensity during heading−flowering stage and thermal factors during milk−ripening to mature stage. Sedimentation index in strong−gluten wheat was sensitive to light intensity during heading−flowering stage, whereas weak−gluten wheat sedimentation index was more influenced by combined light and thermal factors during milk−ripening stage. Stepwise regression models indicated that quality indices of different gluten−type wheat were regulated by distinct meteorological factors, with significant temporal variations in factor effects across growth stages. This study reveals the regulatory mechanisms of meteorological factors on wheat quality formation, providing a scientific basis for the regionalized cultivation of high−quality special−purpose wheat and precision agricultural management. The findings have important implications for optimizing field practices, adapting to climate change, and enhancing wheat production quality.

Key words: Wheat quality, Meteorological factors, Strong?gluten wheat, Weak?gluten wheat, Regression model