Impact of Cold and Heat Stress on Different Stages of Wheat: A Critical Review

Abstract

Wheat is the main source of protein and calories for humans and is ranked as the third-largest crop in the world after corn and rice. Wheat productivity is harshly affected by harsh climatic conditions. Salinity, drought, high temperature, and insufficient availability of nutrients are the main environmental stresses that are the key factors for the low grain yield of wheat. Cold stress (low temperature) is a major environmental factor that frequently affects wheat growth and crop productivity by impacting photosynthesis, water transport, and cell division. High-temperature stress (high temperature from the critical threshold) causes irremediable damage to plant growth and development. It is suggested to take imperative steps to address these issues in wheat production. In this article, we have reviewed the recent progress in research on heat and cold stress and its effects on physiological traits and metabolites. We also discussed the quantitative and qualitative effects of cold and heat stress at germination, seedling, and reproductive stages.