Effect of management practices on yield and seed loss in durum wheat under arid conditions

Despite irrigation expansion, durum wheat yields in Algeria remain substantially below genetic potential. This study quantified emergence, natural, and mechanical losses under irrigated arid conditions in Laghouat Province, Algeria, during 2024-2025. Five experimental fields (Vitron variety) were monitored, measuring emergence densities, potential yield components, pre-harvest yield, and harvested yield. Emergence losses (24-43 %) were compensated through tillering (r = -0.996, p≤0.001), though excessive densities (> 600 seeds.m-2) increased losses without yield benefit. Potential yield ranged from 9.3 to 13.7 t.ha-1, with grain number per spike as primary determinant (r = 0.994, p≤0.001). Natural losses (12-38 %) were amplified by extreme weather (hail, 36 mm.h-1 rainfall, May 14, 2025). Mechanical losses (31-47 %) exceeded international standards (3-7 %). Cumulative losses reached 54-60 % of potential, valorizing between 40 and 46 %. Optimization must prioritize mechanical loss reduction, legume rotations, and row seeding at moderate density.

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