Fig. 5

Comparison of the performance of the best outstanding MPCD line, 8-way cross-3 (S22086RV), its corresponding 2-way and 4-way cross derivatives, as well as their respective founder genotypes for different water use component traits. The traits evaluated in this comparative analysis include: (a) transpiration rate, (b) transpiration efficiency, and (c) total water use. These parameters were assessed under both well-watered and water stress conditions using lysimetric studies, which offer valuable insights into the water use efficiency and drought tolerance characteristics of the various genetic materials tested.