From Stress to Success: Harnessing Technological Advancements to Overcome Climate Change Impacts in Citriculture

Abstract

Climate change, primarily caused by human activities, leads to persistent alterations in Earth’s long-term weather patterns and temperatures, resulting in substantial regional climate disparities that significantly impact agricultural output. In the realm of sustainable citriculture, climate change poses a notable challenge by inducing abiotic stresses within citrus-producing regions. Projections suggest rising air temperatures by 2.2-5.1 °C, heightened instances of temperatures exceeding 30 °C during dry spells, freezing events, a reduction in rainfall by at least 4%, and amplified monsoonal precipitations. Such changes will inevitably affect citrus tree physiology and yield quality. The intricate connection between external climatic conditions and crucial physiological processes underscores the profound influence of climate change. Temperature fluctuations can disrupt leaf photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, flower and fruit development, fruit sugar production, coloration, abscission, carbohydrate accumulation, and ultimate fruit yield. This comprehensive review delves into the specific repercussions of climate change on citrus cultivation, focusing on variables like temperature variations, water availability, light intensity, atmospheric CO₂ concentration, and salinity stress. Our exploration elucidates the adverse impact of these stressors on citrus crops, while highlighting innovative tactics and emerging technologies, including advanced monitoring systems, precision irrigation, automated climate regulation, molecular priming through biostimulants, shade netting, and particle film technologies. By mitigating the adverse effects of environmental stressors, these strategies empower citrus growers to navigate challenges like excessive solar radiation, temperature fluctuations, soil moisture management, erosion prevention, and enhanced soil quality. These combined efforts forge a path toward a more resilient citriculture capable of effectively countering the abiotic stresses stemming from climate change.

Keywords:

• Citriculture
• climate change
• abiotic stress
• technological advancements
• cultivation strategies