Integrative decision-support framework identifies drought-resilient sugar beet genotypes under water-limited conditions

Drought stress is a significant limitation to sustainable sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) production, underscoring the need for genotypes that maintain yield under water scarcity. This study evaluated 20 sugar beet genotypes under drought-stressed and non-stressed conditions using key stress tolerance indices to identify drought-resilient candidates. Significant variability was observed among genotypes, confirming the presence of exploitable diversity for improving drought tolerance. Strong associations among productivity-based indices indicated consistent performance patterns across environments. Multivariate analyses, including hierarchical clustering and principal component analysis, effectively differentiated genotypes based on stress-adaptive responses. To improve selection accuracy, multi-criteria decision-making approaches were applied. Across Fuzzy TOPSIS, Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), and VIKOR rankings, Genotype 3 consistently demonstrated the highest drought resilience, followed by Genotypes 5 and 13. These genotypes exhibited superior yield stability and reduced stress susceptibility, highlighting their suitability for cultivation in drought-prone regions. Indices such as GMP, STI, and REI were identified as the most influential contributors to stress tolerance. This integrative evaluation framework provides a reliable tool to support strategic genotype selection and breeding decisions and to strengthen efforts to develop climate-resilient sugar beet cultivars.