The resistance of species of the genus Aegilops in abiotic and biotic stress

Plant species of the genus Aegilops belong to Graminae. They are defined as Mediterranean – W. Asian species, consisting of diploid, tetraploid and exaploid species, and bearing many similarities to Triticum sp. Many abiotic and biotic factors influence metabolism and growth of Aegilops species defining in a major way their existence. Recent studies reveal that species of the Aegilops genus exhibit resistance in many abiotic (salinity, drought) and biotic factors (diseases and fungi), bringing into operation many sophisticated ecophysiological and morphological mechanisms, setting Aegilops as a very important and precious genus for further improvement of other herbaceous species grown under abiotic and biotic stress. This study reviews the resistance of Aegilops sp. to biotic and abiotic stresses placing special emphasis on the respective eco-physiological mechanisms. The various practical and theoretical implications of this resistance are discussed.