# Cadmium Accumulation in Cacao Plants (Theobroma cacao L.) under Drought Stress

Antonio Ortiz-Álvarez, Stanislav Magnitskiy, Elías Alexander Silva-Arero, Caren Rodríguez-Medina, Xavier Argout, Ángela María Castaño-Marín

► To cite this version:

Antonio Ortiz-Álvarez, Stanislav Magnitskiy, Elías Alexander Silva-Arero, Caren Rodríguez-Medina, Xavier Argout, et al.. Cadmium Accumulation in Cacao Plants (Theobroma cacao L.) under Drought Stress. Agronomy, 2023, 13, pp.2490. 10.3390/agronomy13102490. [https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy13102490](https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy13102490)

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# Cadmium Accumulation in Cacao Plants (Theobroma cacao L.) under Drought Stress

Antonio Ortiz-Álvarez, Stanislav Magnitskiy, Elías Alexander Silva-Arero, Caren Rodríguez-Medina, Xavier Argout, Ángela María Castaño-Marín

► To cite this version:

Antonio Ortiz-Álvarez, Stanislav Magnitskiy, Elías Alexander Silva-Arero, Caren Rodríguez-Medina, Xavier Argout, et al.. Cadmium Accumulation in Cacao Plants (Theobroma cacao L.) under Drought Stress. Agronomy, 2023, 13, pp.2490. 10.3390/agronomy13102490. [https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy13102491]

HAL Id: hal-04552081

https://hal.inrae.fr/hal-04552081v1

Submitted on 19 Apr 2024

HAL is a multi-disciplinary open access
archive for the deposit and dissemination of sci-
entific research documents, whether they are pub-
lished or not. The documents may come from
teaching and research institutions in France or
abroad, or from public or private research centers.

L'archive ouverte pluridisciplinaire HAL, est
destinée au dépôt et à la diffusion de documents
scientifiques de niveau recherche, publiés ou non,
émanant des établissements d'enseignement et de
recherche français ou étrangers, des laboratoires
publics ou privés.

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Distributed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
the maximum allowable limits set by the European Union, which establishes a maximum tolerated limit of 0.8 mg kg⁻¹ for final products with cacao solids equal to or exceeding 50% [5–7]. This situation raises significant concerns for the quality and safety of cocoa-derived products.

Various studies have reported that tolerance to Cd accumulation is based on genotypic differences [8,9]. While some previous studies have investigated genetic variation in Cd accumulation and distribution in cocoa. These studies have been limited in terms of the number of genotypes evaluated, the environmental conditions in which they were conducted, and the lack of information on Cd bioaccumulation in cacao [10]. Additionally, most studies on Cd absorption and accumulation in young cacao plants are carried out using soils or substrates artificially enriched with soluble sources of Cd, such as cadmium chloride (CdCl₂) [8,11] and cadmium nitrate (Cd(NO₃)₂) [12]. Likewise, studies conducted in Cd-contaminated soils without the addition of specific sources of this heavy metal have been conducted in plantations with an age exceeding ten years [10,13–15].

To date, no studies have addressed the interaction between water deficit and Cd accumulation in cacao. However, in species such as castor bean, Indian mustard, and tomato, among others, it has been observed that Cd absorption and accumulation in plant tissues tend to decrease based on plant transpiration under water-deficit conditions [16–18]. On the other hand, in wheat, soybean, and peanut, it has been reported that Cd concentration tends to increase due to reduced biomass accumulation under water-stress conditions [19–23].

The absorption and accumulation of Cd under water-deficit conditions appear to largely depend on genotype and its tolerance to this condition. According to Bashir et al. (2019), tolerant soybean cultivars are less affected in terms of root length, area, and diameter compared to susceptible ones, allowing them to absorb a greater amount of Cd from the soil [21]. In the case of tomato species, Ünyayar et al. (2005) found that Cd accumulated to a greater extent in the roots of the drought-sensitive species than in the drought-tolerant one, resulting in differences in Cd translocation to the aboveground part of the plants [18]. The authors concluded that a clear relationship exists between Cd absorption and drought tolerance [18]. Conversely, for castor bean, Shi et al. (2015) reported that Cd translocation from the roots to aboveground organs was not affected by water stress [17].

The preceding analysis reveals significant differences between species and genotypes in Cd accumulation under water-deficit conditions. Therefore, it is considered essential to study this behavior in cacao plants, given that water deficit and the presence of Cd in the soil are becoming increasingly common in cacao-growing areas of Colombia and the world due to climate change and soil pollution by heavy metals like Cd [24–26].

In this regard, the objective of this study was to evaluate the influence and interaction of genotype and soil water content on Cd accumulation and distribution in cacao plants. Unlike other studies that use substrates or soils artificially enriched with soluble sources of Cd, such as Cd(NO₃)₂ and CdCl₂ [8,11,12], this research was conducted under conditions closer to field reality, in which plants grew without the addition of external Cd sources.

## 2. Materials and Methods

### 2.1. *Study Site*

The experiment was conducted under greenhouse conditions at the Nataima Research Center of AGROSAVIA, located in a tropical dry forest area at 4°11′31″ N and 74°57′41″ W, with an altitude of 418 m above sea level in the municipality of El Espinal, Tolima, Colombia.

### 2.2. *Plant Materials*

Plant material was obtained at the Palmira Research Center of AGROSAVIA through controlled crosses between accessions from the Colombian Cacao Germplasm Bank, IMC67 × PA121 and SCA6 × PA121. An open pollinated (OP) half-sib seedling family of IMC67, widely used as rootstock in Colombia, was also considered.
the maximum allowable limits set by the European Union, which establishes a maximum tolerated limit of 0.8 mg kg⁻¹ for final products with cacao solids equal to or exceeding 50% [5–7]. This situation raises significant concerns for the quality and safety of cocoa-derived products.

Various studies have reported that tolerance to Cd accumulation is based on genotypic differences [8,9]. While some previous studies have investigated genetic variation in Cd accumulation and distribution in cocoa. These studies have been limited in terms of the number of genotypes evaluated, the environmental conditions in which they were conducted, and the lack of information on Cd bioaccumulation in cacao [10]. Additionally, most studies on Cd absorption and accumulation in young cacao plants are carried out using soils or substrates artificially enriched with soluble sources of Cd, such as cadmium chloride (CdCl₂) [8,11] and cadmium nitrate (Cd(NO₃)₂) [12]. Likewise, studies conducted in Cd-contaminated soils without the addition of specific sources of this heavy metal have been conducted in plantations with an age exceeding ten years [10,13–15].

To date, no studies have addressed the interaction between water deficit and Cd accumulation in cacao. However, in species such as castor bean, Indian mustard, and tomato, among others, it has been observed that Cd absorption and accumulation in plant tissues tend to decrease based on plant transpiration under water-deficit conditions [16–18]. On the other hand, in wheat, soybean, and peanut, it has been reported that Cd concentration tends to increase due to reduced biomass accumulation under water-stress conditions [19–23].

The absorption and accumulation of Cd under water-deficit conditions appear to largely depend on genotype and its tolerance to this condition. According to Bashir et al. (2019), tolerant soybean cultivars are less affected in terms of root length, area, and diameter compared to susceptible ones, allowing them to absorb a greater amount of Cd from the soil [21]. In the case of tomato species, Ünyayar et al. (2005) found that Cd accumulated to a greater extent in the roots of the drought-sensitive species than in the drought-tolerant one, resulting in differences in Cd translocation to the aboveground part of the plants [18]. The authors concluded that a clear relationship exists between Cd absorption and drought tolerance [18]. Conversely, for castor bean, Shi et al. (2015) reported that Cd translocation from the roots to aboveground organs was not affected by water stress [17].

The preceding analysis reveals significant differences between species and genotypes in Cd accumulation under water-deficit conditions. Therefore, it is considered essential to study this behavior in cacao plants, given that water deficit and the presence of Cd in the soil are becoming increasingly common in cacao-growing areas of Colombia and the world due to climate change and soil pollution by heavy metals like Cd [24–26].

In this regard, the objective of this study was to evaluate the influence and interaction of genotype and soil water content on Cd accumulation and distribution in cacao plants. Unlike other studies that use substrates or soils artificially enriched with soluble sources of Cd, such as Cd(NO₃)₂ and CdCl₂ [8,11,12], this research was conducted under conditions closer to field reality, in which plants grew without the addition of external Cd sources.

## 2. Materials and Methods

### 2.1. *Study Site*

The experiment was conducted under greenhouse conditions at the Nataima Research Center of AGROSAVIA, located in a tropical dry forest area at 4°11′31″ N and 74°57′41″ W, with an altitude of 418 m above sea level in the municipality of El Espinal, Tolima, Colombia.

### 2.2. *Plant Materials*

Plant material was obtained at the Palmira Research Center of AGROSAVIA through controlled crosses between accessions from the Colombian Cacao Germplasm Bank, IMC67 × PA121 and SCA6 × PA121. An open pollinated (OP) half-sib seedling family of IMC67, widely used as rootstock in Colombia, was also considered.
The obtained seeds were germinated and maintained in an inert medium (river sand) for 60 days at the Nataima Research Center—AGROSAVIA. Subsequently, two-month-old plants with 6 to 8 true leaves were transplanted into plastic bags containing soil, where they remained until the end of the experiment. The soil used had an average soluble Cd content of 0.356 mg kg⁻¹, determined by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES).

## 2.3. *Planting and Growth*

Under greenhouse conditions, transplanting was conducted using black plastic bags (60 cm in height × 30 cm in diameter) filled with 40 kg of loam soil. The soil had an average pH of 5.29 and an organic carbon content of 5.1%. Prior to transplanting, the soil was homogenized through a 12 mm sieve. Based on soil analysis results, each plant, at four months of age, was fertilized with 5.7 g of Calcinit B (15.5% N; 26.0% Ca; 0.1% B), 8.6 g of DAP (18.0% N; 46% P), 5.7 g of ManuKiesek (3% K; 24% Mg; 18% S), and 9 mL of Transfer ionic (an organic complex of carboxylic acids, gluconates, and ascorbic acid). This aimed to adjust ionic relationships and base saturation in the soil according to cacao nutritional requirements [27]. From transplantation until the initiation of water-stress treatments, all plants were hydrated to field capacity using tap water. Irrigation was adjusted based on soil moisture, monitored through CS616 volumetric moisture sensors (Campbell Scientific®, Logan, UT, USA). Each plant received between 250 and 300 mL of water with an average frequency of every two days, depending on detected soil moisture conditions.

Water-deficit treatments were applied when the plants reached six months of age [28]. The experimental design consisted of a randomized complete block with three replications, following a factorial arrangement. The first factor comprised the progenies IMC67 × PA121, SCA6 × PA121 and OP IMC67, while the second factor included two water status states: plants subjected to water-deficit stress (DS) and well-watered plants (WW). For the WW treatment, plants were optimally irrigated to maintain a soil volumetric water content (VWC) between 38% and 40% during the evaluation period. The soil field capacity was determined through the soil moisture retention curve of the experiment. VWC was monitored using calibrated CS616 volumetric moisture sensors (Campbell Scientific®, USA) placed at a depth of 25 cm in the soil, corresponding to the region of secondary and absorptive roots responsible for water and nutrient uptake by cacao plants [29].

## 2.4. *Drought Stress Treatments*

Predawn leaf water potential (Ψleaf) was maintained between −0.2 and −0.7 MPa, consistent with reported values for optimally hydrated cacao plants (Dos Santos et al. [28]). In the DS treatment, irrigation was withheld for consecutive periods of 19 (D19) and 27 (D27) days until Ψleaf reached values ranging from −1.4 ± −0.4 to −2.05 ± 0.25 MPa, respectively. This deliberate action subjected the plants to moderate and severe levels of water stress [28,30,31], during which the VWC was maintained at approximately 30% and 25%, respectively. Following the D19 and D27 stress phases, all plants were rehydrated over a three-day period until reaching field capacity values of 38–40%, thus allowing for recovery from the stress phase (rehydration phase—DRH). Evaluations of recovery were conducted on the third day after rehydration (DRH).

All parameters were assessed at three distinct time points: during the 19th and 27th days of water stress (D19 and D27) and at the conclusion of the rehydration phase (DRH). However, biomass and Cd content in the plants were exclusively determined on D19 and D27. For these measurements, leaf tissue samples were frozen in liquid nitrogen and subsequently stored at −80 °C. These samples were later utilized to determine the physiological and biochemical variables of the cacao plants.

## 2.5. *Environmental Conditions during the Experiment*

During the course of the experiment, measurements of key environmental variables were conducted, including air temperature (°C), relative humidity (% RH), and solar
The obtained seeds were germinated and maintained in an inert medium (river sand) for 60 days at the Nataima Research Center—AGROSAVIA. Subsequently, two-month-old plants with 6 to 8 true leaves were transplanted into plastic bags containing soil, where they remained until the end of the experiment. The soil used had an average soluble Cd content of 0.356 mg kg⁻¹, determined by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES).

## 2.3. *Planting and Growth*

Under greenhouse conditions, transplanting was conducted using black plastic bags (60 cm in height × 30 cm in diameter) filled with 40 kg of loam soil. The soil had an average pH of 5.29 and an organic carbon content of 5.1%. Prior to transplanting, the soil was homogenized through a 12 mm sieve. Based on soil analysis results, each plant, at four months of age, was fertilized with 5.7 g of Calcinit B (15.5% N; 26.0% Ca; 0.1% B), 8.6 g of DAP (18.0% N; 46% P), 5.7 g of ManuKiesek (3% K; 24% Mg; 18% S), and 9 mL of Transfer ionic (an organic complex of carboxylic acids, gluconates, and ascorbic acid). This aimed to adjust ionic relationships and base saturation in the soil according to cacao nutritional requirements [27]. From transplantation until the initiation of water-stress treatments, all plants were hydrated to field capacity using tap water. Irrigation was adjusted based on soil moisture, monitored through CS616 volumetric moisture sensors (Campbell Scientific®, Logan, UT, USA). Each plant received between 250 and 300 mL of water with an average frequency of every two days, depending on detected soil moisture conditions.

Water-deficit treatments were applied when the plants reached six months of age [28]. The experimental design consisted of a randomized complete block with three replications, following a factorial arrangement. The first factor comprised the progenies IMC67 × PA121, SCA6 × PA121 and OP IMC67, while the second factor included two water status states: plants subjected to water-deficit stress (DS) and well-watered plants (WW). For the WW treatment, plants were optimally irrigated to maintain a soil volumetric water content (VWC) between 38% and 40% during the evaluation period. The soil field capacity was determined through the soil moisture retention curve of the experiment. VWC was monitored using calibrated CS616 volumetric moisture sensors (Campbell Scientific®, USA) placed at a depth of 25 cm in the soil, corresponding to the region of secondary and absorptive roots responsible for water and nutrient uptake by cacao plants [29].

## 2.4. *Drought Stress Treatments*

Predawn leaf water potential (Ψleaf) was maintained between −0.2 and −0.7 MPa, consistent with reported values for optimally hydrated cacao plants (Dos Santos et al. [28]). In the DS treatment, irrigation was withheld for consecutive periods of 19 (D19) and 27 (D27) days until Ψleaf reached values ranging from −1.4 ± −0.4 to −2.05 ± 0.25 MPa, respectively. This deliberate action subjected the plants to moderate and severe levels of water stress [28,30,31], during which the VWC was maintained at approximately 30% and 25%, respectively. Following the D19 and D27 stress phases, all plants were rehydrated over a three-day period until reaching field capacity values of 38–40%, thus allowing for recovery from the stress phase (rehydration phase—DRH). Evaluations of recovery were conducted on the third day after rehydration (DRH).

All parameters were assessed at three distinct time points: during the 19th and 27th days of water stress (D19 and D27) and at the conclusion of the rehydration phase (DRH). However, biomass and Cd content in the plants were exclusively determined on D19 and D27. For these measurements, leaf tissue samples were frozen in liquid nitrogen and subsequently stored at −80 °C. These samples were later utilized to determine the physiological and biochemical variables of the cacao plants.

## 2.5. *Environmental Conditions during the Experiment*

During the course of the experiment, measurements of key environmental variables were conducted, including air temperature (°C), relative humidity (% RH), and solar
radiation (W m⁻²). For this purpose, two ATMOS 14 sensors from Meter Groups (Pullman, WA, USA) were used, adapted to an EM50 Data Logger, and placed inside the greenhouse. These sensors recorded temperature and relative humidity on a daily basis, with a sampling frequency of 30 min. Additionally, to measure solar radiation, a Vantage Pro2 weather station (Davis Instruments, Newberry, FL, USA) was employed, situated at a distance of 200 m from the greenhouse. The data collected throughout the entire experiment are presented in Figure 1.

<figure><img src="image_2.png" /><figcaption>**Figure 1.** Daily average temperature inside the greenhouse (Temp), relative humidity (RH), maximum temperature (max. temp), minimum temperature (min. temp) inside the greenhouse and solar radiation (solar rad.) conditions to which cacao plants were exposed throughout the duration of the experiment.</figcaption></figure>

## 2.6. Leaf Water Potential (Ψleaf)

The leaf water potential (Ψleaf) was determined between 2:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. by sampling the third mature leaf from the top to the bottom of the plant [30]. Nine plants per treatment (n = 9) were selected, and measurements were taken using a Schölander pressure chamber (PMS Model 615, Fresno, CA, USA).

## 2.7. Gas Exchange

The parameters of photosynthetic rate (A), stomatal conductance (gs), and transpiration (E) were recorded from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the fourth mature leaf from the top to the bottom of the plant [32]. Twelve plants per treatment (n = 12) were selected for measurements using a portable photosynthesis system, LI-6800XT (LI-COR Biosciences Inc., Lincoln, NE, USA). The measurements were taken at an ambient CO₂ concentration of 400 µmol m⁻² s⁻¹ [30] and a photosynthetic photon flux density of 600 µmol m⁻² s⁻¹.

## 2.8. Biomass Accumulation

Six plants per treatment (n = 6) were selected and divided into leaves + petioles, stems, and roots. These plant parts were placed in an oven at 60 °C for three days to determine their dry weight using an analytical balance. The root-to-shoot ratio (R/S) of the plant was calculated by dividing the dry weight of the roots by the dry weight of the leaves + stems.

## 2.9. Soil Cd Content

The soil used for plant growth in the experiment was extracted from an agricultural plot located at the Tibaitatá Research Center of AGROSAVIA. This soil was specifically chosen for its initial pseudototal Cd content (4.85 mg kg⁻¹) and its physicochemical properties suitable for cacao plant development. Given the soil's historical use over the decades, the
radiation (W m⁻²). For this purpose, two ATMOS 14 sensors from Meter Groups (Pullman, WA, USA) were used, adapted to an EM50 Data Logger, and placed inside the greenhouse. These sensors recorded temperature and relative humidity on a daily basis, with a sampling frequency of 30 min. Additionally, to measure solar radiation, a Vantage Pro2 weather station (Davis Instruments, Newberry, FL, USA) was employed, situated at a distance of 200 m from the greenhouse. The data collected throughout the entire experiment are presented in Figure 1.

<figure><img src="image_2.png" /><figcaption>**Figure 1.** Daily average temperature inside the greenhouse (Temp), relative humidity (RH), maximum temperature (max. temp), minimum temperature (min. temp) inside the greenhouse and solar radiation (solar rad.) conditions to which cacao plants were exposed throughout the duration of the experiment.</figcaption></figure>

## 2.6. Leaf Water Potential ($\Psi_{leaf}$)

The leaf water potential ($\Psi_{leaf}$) was determined between 2:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. by sampling the third mature leaf from the top to the bottom of the plant [30]. Nine plants per treatment (n = 9) were selected, and measurements were taken using a Schölander pressure chamber (PMS Model 615, Fresno, CA, USA).

## 2.7. Gas Exchange

The parameters of photosynthetic rate (A), stomatal conductance (gs), and transpiration (E) were recorded from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the fourth mature leaf from the top to the bottom of the plant [32]. Twelve plants per treatment (n = 12) were selected for measurements using a portable photosynthesis system, LI-6800XT (LI-COR Biosciences Inc., Lincoln, NE, USA). The measurements were taken at an ambient CO₂ concentration of 400 µmol m⁻² s⁻¹ [30] and a photosynthetic photon flux density of 600 µmol m⁻² s⁻¹.

## 2.8. Biomass Accumulation

Six plants per treatment (n = 6) were selected and divided into leaves + petioles, stems, and roots. These plant parts were placed in an oven at 60 °C for three days to determine their dry weight using an analytical balance. The root-to-shoot ratio (R/S) of the plant was calculated by dividing the dry weight of the roots by the dry weight of the leaves + stems.

## 2.9. Soil Cd Content

The soil used for plant growth in the experiment was extracted from an agricultural plot located at the Tibaitatá Research Center of AGROSAVIA. This soil was specifically chosen for its initial pseudototal Cd content (4.85 mg kg⁻¹) and its physicochemical properties suitable for cacao plant development. Given the soil's historical use over the decades, the
presence of Cd is considered anthropogenic in origin, attributed to agricultural activities, particularly the use of phosphoric fertilizers that enrich the soil with this metal.

To ensure uniformity, a total of 10.08 tons of soil were homogenized and used to fill black plastic bags, each with a capacity of 40 kg, measuring 65 cm in height and 28 cm in diameter. These bags were subsequently used for transplanting cacao seedlings with six to eight true leaves.

The Cd content in the soil was determined following the methodology described by Bravo et al. (2021) [24].

Based on the results of this determination, it can be affirmed that plants from all treatments, including well-watered plants, grew in soil with an average soluble Cd content of 0.356 mg kg⁻¹, a value considered high according to Dutta et al. (2020) [33].

## 2.10. Plant Cd Content

To determine the Cd content in the plant, organs were separated into leaves with petioles, stems, and roots from three plants per progeny (n = 3) on days 19 and 27 of stress. Subsequently, the samples were dried in an oven at 70 °C for one week until reaching a constant weight. The Cd content in roots, stems, and leaves was obtained using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) [34]. The results of the plant Cd content were expressed in terms of concentration in mg Cd per kg of the organ.

To determine the Cd accumulation per plant organ, the Cd concentration was multiplied by the dry mass of each organ, expressed in mg of Cd per organ. The total Cd accumulation in the plant was obtained by summing the Cd accumulation in roots, stems, and leaves.

## 2.11. Translocation Factor (TF)

The Cd Translocation Factor (TF) index was determined using the equation by Mattina et al. (2003) (see Equation (1)), as employed by De Almeida et al. (2022) in 8-month-old cacao plants [11,35].

$$TF = \frac{\text{Cd concentration in shoots}}{\text{Cd concentration in roots}} \qquad (1)$$

## 2.12. Statistical Analysis

A two-way ANOVA (progeny × stress treatment) was conducted to identify significant differences between treatments using the Tukey's honestly significant difference (HSD) test. In addition, the Cd content in the leaves was included in the Pearson correlation analysis along with other physiological parameters to determine the relationship between Cd accumulation and these variables.

# 3. Results

## 3.1. Leaf Water Potential (Ψleaf)

The leaf water potential (Ψleaf) of cacao plants was significantly different between well-watered (WW) and stressed (DS) treatments (Table 1). In well-watered (WW) plants, Ψleaf ranged between -0.31 and -0.61 MPa, while in stressed (DS) plants, Ψleaf ranged between -1.51 and -2.09 MPa. On day 19 (D19) of water stress, the progeny that exhibited the least reduction in Ψleaf was SCA 6 × PA121 (-1.51 MPa), followed by IMC67 OP half-sib (-1.78 MPa), and IMC 67 × PA121 full-sib familiescA2 (-1.87 MPa).

The lowest Ψleaf values were observed in DS plants on D27 (-2.04 ± 0.05 MPa) when VWC reached 24.6% (Table 1), with no significant differences among progenies. However, three days after rehydration (DRH), all progenies previously subjected to stress (DS) showed Ψleaf values similar to the WW treatment.
presence of Cd is considered anthropogenic in origin, attributed to agricultural activities, particularly the use of phosphoric fertilizers that enrich the soil with this metal.

To ensure uniformity, a total of 10.08 tons of soil were homogenized and used to fill black plastic bags, each with a capacity of 40 kg, measuring 65 cm in height and 28 cm in diameter. These bags were subsequently used for transplanting cacao seedlings with six to eight true leaves.

The Cd content in the soil was determined following the methodology described by Bravo et al. (2021) [24].

Based on the results of this determination, it can be affirmed that plants from all treatments, including well-watered plants, grew in soil with an average soluble Cd content of 0.356 mg kg⁻¹, a value considered high according to Dutta et al. (2020) [33].

## 2.10. Plant Cd Content

To determine the Cd content in the plant, organs were separated into leaves with petioles, stems, and roots from three plants per progeny (n = 3) on days 19 and 27 of stress. Subsequently, the samples were dried in an oven at 70 °C for one week until reaching a constant weight. The Cd content in roots, stems, and leaves was obtained using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) [34]. The results of the plant Cd content were expressed in terms of concentration in mg Cd per kg of the organ.

To determine the Cd accumulation per plant organ, the Cd concentration was multiplied by the dry mass of each organ, expressed in mg of Cd per organ. The total Cd accumulation in the plant was obtained by summing the Cd accumulation in roots, stems, and leaves.

## 2.11. Translocation Factor (TF)

The Cd Translocation Factor (TF) index was determined using the equation by Mattina et al. (2003) (see Equation (1)), as employed by De Almeida et al. (2022) in 8-month-old cacao plants [11,35].

$$TF = \frac{\text{Cd concentration in shoots}}{\text{Cd concentration in roots}} \qquad (1)$$

## 2.12. Statistical Analysis

A two-way ANOVA (progeny × stress treatment) was conducted to identify significant differences between treatments using the Tukey's honestly significant difference (HSD) test. In addition, the Cd content in the leaves was included in the Pearson correlation analysis along with other physiological parameters to determine the relationship between Cd accumulation and these variables.

# 3. Results

## 3.1. Leaf Water Potential (Ψleaf)

The leaf water potential (Ψleaf) of cacao plants was significantly different between well-watered (WW) and stressed (DS) treatments (Table 1). In well-watered (WW) plants, Ψleaf ranged between −0.31 and −0.61 MPa, while in stressed (DS) plants, Ψleaf ranged between −1.51 and −2.09 MPa. On day 19 (D19) of water stress, the progeny that exhibited the least reduction in Ψleaf was SCA 6 × PA121 (−1.51 MPa), followed by IMC67 OP half-sib (−1.78 MPa), and IMC 67 × PA121 full-sib familiescA2 (−1.87 MPa).

The lowest Ψleaf values were observed in DS plants on D27 (−2.04 ± 0.05 MPa) when VWC reached 24.6% (Table 1), with no significant differences among progenies. However, three days after rehydration (DRH), all progenies previously subjected to stress (DS) showed Ψleaf values similar to the WW treatment.
<table><caption>**Table 1.** Leaf water potential Ψ<sub>leaf</sub> (MPa) of three cacao family progenies under water stress and rehydration.</caption><thead><tr><th rowspan="2">Progeny</th><th rowspan="2"></th><th colspan="3">Ψ<sub>leaf</sub> (MPa)</th></tr><tr><th>Water Stress</th><th>DS</th><th>DRH</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td rowspan="4">IMC67 × PA121</td><td>D19</td><td>WW</td><td>-0.52 ± -0.10 ef</td><td>-0.34 ± -0.04 FG</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>DS</td><td>-1.87 ± -0.11 bc</td><td>-0.33 ± -0.04 FG</td></tr><tr><td>D27</td><td>WW</td><td>-0.37 ± -0.12 fg</td><td>-0.42 ± -0.04 DE</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>DS</td><td>-2.06 ± -0.13 a</td><td>-0.52 ± -0.06 BC</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="4">SCA6 × PA121</td><td>D19</td><td>WW</td><td>-0.47 ± -0.10 fg</td><td>-0.29 ± -0.06 G</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>DS</td><td>-1.51 ± -0.06 de</td><td>-0.37 ± -0.05 EF</td></tr><tr><td>D27</td><td>WW</td><td>-0.31 ± -0.07 g</td><td>-0.61 ± -0.05 A</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>DS</td><td>-2.09 ± -0.08 a</td><td>-0.62 ± -0.07 A</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="4">IMC67</td><td>D19</td><td>WW</td><td>-0.63 ± -0.06 e</td><td>-0.33 ± -0.06 EF</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>DS</td><td>-1.78 ± -0.13 c</td><td>-0.47 ± -0.06 CD</td></tr><tr><td>D27</td><td>WW</td><td>-0.37 ± -0.10 fg</td><td>-0.57 ± -0.07 AB</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>DS</td><td>-1.98 ± -0.10 ab</td><td>-0.54 ± -0.05 ABC</td></tr></tbody></table>

WW: Well-watered; DS: water-deficit stress; DRH: rehydration of plants subjected to D19 and D27. Lowercase letters indicate the significance of the treatments in the water-deficit stress phase (DS), while uppercase letters represent the significance of the treatments in the rehydration phase (DRH). Average values (n = 9). Significant differences (p < 0.05) using two-way ANOVA (progeny × stress). Different letters indicate significant differences according to Tukey's HSD test.

## 3.2. Gas Exchange

Water-deficit stress affected the ability of cacao plants to exchange gases. In the DS treatment, photosynthesis (A) values ranged from 5.92 to 9.08 µmol CO₂ m⁻² s⁻¹, and significant differences were observed among progenies and the days of irrigation suspension (D19 and D27) (Table 2).

<table><caption>**Table 2.** Gas exchange parameters in three cacao family progenies under water stress and rehydration.</caption><thead><tr><th rowspan="2">Progeny</th><th rowspan="2">Water Stress</th><th colspan="3">A</th></tr><tr><th>(µmol CO₂ m⁻² s⁻¹)</th><th>(mol H₂O m⁻² s⁻¹)</th><th>(mmol H₂O m⁻² s⁻¹)</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td rowspan="4">IMC67 × PA121</td><td>D19</td><td>WW</td><td>7.46 ± 0.61 c</td><td>0.07 ± 0.02 ab</td><td>0.00167 ± 0.00032 ab</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>DS</td><td>3.47 ± 0.53 e</td><td>0.03 ± 0.01 c</td><td>0.00077 ± 0.00033 fg</td></tr><tr><td>DRH</td><td>WW</td><td>6.74 ± 0.7 B</td><td>0.07 ± 0.02 ABC</td><td>0.00153 ± 0.0005 ABC</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>DS</td><td>6.72 ± 0.63 BC</td><td>0.07 ± 0.01 ABC</td><td>0.00151 ± 0.00034 ABC</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="4">SCA6 × PA121</td><td>D27</td><td>WW</td><td>8.75 ± 0.41 ab</td><td>0.08 ± 0.02 a</td><td>0.00129 ± 0.00033 bcd</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>DS</td><td>2.14 ± 0.57 gh</td><td>0.02 ± 0.01 c</td><td>0.00037 ± 0.00021 gh</td></tr><tr><td>DRH</td><td>WW</td><td>7.43 ± 0.8 AB</td><td>0.07 ± 0.02 ABC</td><td>0.00135 ± 0.00065 ABC</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>DS</td><td>7.31 ± 0.79 AB</td><td>0.07 ± 0.02 ABC</td><td>0.00148 ± 0.00076 ABC</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="4">IMC67</td><td>D19</td><td>WW</td><td>8.21 ± 0.63 b</td><td>0.07 ± 0.02 ab</td><td>0.00171 ± 0.00037 a</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>DS</td><td>3.88 ± 0.47 e</td><td>0.03 ± 0.01 c</td><td>0.00085 ± 0.00024 ef</td></tr><tr><td>DRH</td><td>WW</td><td>7.45 ± 0.63 AB</td><td>0.08 ± 0.02 A</td><td>0.00172 ± 0.00052 A</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>DS</td><td>6.71 ± 0.68 BC</td><td>0.05 ± 0.01 C</td><td>0.00088 ± 0.00025 C</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="4">IMC67</td><td>D27</td><td>WW</td><td>9.08 ± 0.48 a</td><td>0.09 ± 0.02 a</td><td>0.00121 ± 0.0002 cde</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>DS</td><td>2.65 ± 0.61 fg</td><td>0.03 ± 0.02 c</td><td>0.00058 ± 0.00028 fgh</td></tr><tr><td>DRH</td><td>WW</td><td>8.17 ± 0.83 BC</td><td>0.08 ± 0.02 AB</td><td>0.0018 ± 0.00078 AB</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>DS</td><td>6.89 ± 0.75 B</td><td>0.07 ± 0.01 ABC</td><td>0.00122 ± 0.00051 ABC</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="4">IMC67</td><td>D19</td><td>WW</td><td>5.92 ± 0.5 d</td><td>0.06 ± 0.02 b</td><td>0.00148 ± 0.00043 abc</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>DS</td><td>3.29 ± 0.37 ef</td><td>0.03 ± 0.01 c</td><td>0.00089 ± 0.00029 def</td></tr><tr><td>DRH</td><td>WW</td><td>5.6 ± 0.68 D</td><td>0.05 ± 0.02 BC</td><td>0.00093 ± 0.00032 C</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>DS</td><td>5.82 ± 0.65 DC</td><td>0.05 ± 0.01 C</td><td>0.00089 ± 0.00021 C</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="4">IMC67</td><td>D27</td><td>WW</td><td>6.33 ± 0.52 d</td><td>0.07 ± 0.02 ab</td><td>0.00122 ± 0.00042 cde</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>DS</td><td>1.54 ± 0.47 h</td><td>0.02 ± 0.01 c</td><td>0.00031 ± 0.0002 h</td></tr><tr><td>DRH</td><td>WW</td><td>6.55 ± 0.69 BC</td><td>0.06 ± 0.03 ABC</td><td>0.00108 ± 0.00043 BC</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>DS</td><td>6.69 ± 0.6 BC</td><td>0.07 ± 0.02 ABC</td><td>0.00128 ± 0.00035 ABC</td></tr></tbody></table>

A, Photosynthetic rate; gs, stomatal conductance; E, transpiration; WW, well-watered; DS, water-stress phase; DRH, rehydration phase; D19, 19 days of water stress; D27, 27 days of water stress. Lowercase letters indicate the significance of the treatments in the water-deficit stress phase (DS), while uppercase letters represent the significance of the treatments in the rehydration phase (DRH). Average values (n = 12). Significant differences (p < 0.05) determined by two-way ANOVA (progeny × stress). Different letters indicate significant differences according to Tukey's HSD test.
<table><caption>**Table 1.** Leaf water potential Ψ<sub>leaf</sub> (MPa) of three cacao family progenies under water stress and rehydration.</caption><thead><tr><th rowspan="2">Progeny</th><th rowspan="2"></th><th rowspan="2"></th><th colspan="3">Ψ<sub>leaf</sub> (MPa)</th></tr><tr><th>Water Stress</th><th>DS</th><th>DRH</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td rowspan="4">IMC67 × PA121</td><td rowspan="2">D19</td><td>WW</td><td>-0.52 ± -0.10 ef</td><td>-0.34 ± -0.04 FG</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>-1.87 ± -0.11 bc</td><td>-0.33 ± -0.04 FG</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="2">D27</td><td>WW</td><td>-0.37 ± -0.12 fg</td><td>-0.42 ± -0.04 DE</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>-2.06 ± -0.13 a</td><td>-0.52 ± -0.06 BC</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="4">SCA6 × PA121</td><td rowspan="2">D19</td><td>WW</td><td>-0.47 ± -0.10 fg</td><td>-0.29 ± -0.06 G</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>-1.51 ± -0.06 de</td><td>-0.37 ± -0.05 EF</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="2">D27</td><td>WW</td><td>-0.31 ± -0.07 g</td><td>-0.61 ± -0.05 A</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>-2.09 ± -0.08 a</td><td>-0.62 ± -0.07 A</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="4">IMC67</td><td rowspan="2">D19</td><td>WW</td><td>-0.63 ± -0.06 e</td><td>-0.33 ± -0.06 EF</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>-1.78 ± -0.13 c</td><td>-0.47 ± -0.06 CD</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="2">D27</td><td>WW</td><td>-0.37 ± -0.10 fg</td><td>-0.57 ± -0.07 AB</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>-1.98 ± -0.10 ab</td><td>-0.54 ± -0.05 ABC</td></tr></tbody></table>

WW: Well-watered; DS: water-deficit stress; DRH: rehydration of plants subjected to D19 and D27. Lowercase letters indicate the significance of the treatments in the water-deficit stress phase (DS), while uppercase letters represent the significance of the treatments in the rehydration phase (DRH). Average values (n = 9). Significant differences (p < 0.05) using two-way ANOVA (progeny × stress). Different letters indicate significant differences according to Tukey's HSD test.

## 3.2. Gas Exchange

Water-deficit stress affected the ability of cacao plants to exchange gases. In the DS treatment, photosynthesis (A) values ranged from 5.92 to 9.08 µmol CO₂ m⁻² s⁻¹, and significant differences were observed among progenies and the days of irrigation suspension (D19 and D27) (Table 2).

<table><caption>**Table 2.** Gas exchange parameters in three cacao family progenies under water stress and rehydration.</caption><thead><tr><th rowspan="2">Progeny</th><th rowspan="2">Water Stress</th><th colspan="3">A</th></tr><tr><th>(µmol CO₂ m⁻² s⁻¹)</th><th>(mol H₂O m⁻² s⁻¹)</th><th>(mmol H₂O m⁻² s⁻¹)</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td rowspan="6">IMC67 × PA121</td><td rowspan="2">D19</td><td>WW</td><td>7.46 ± 0.61 c</td><td>0.07 ± 0.02 ab</td><td>0.00167 ± 0.00032 ab</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>3.47 ± 0.53 e</td><td>0.03 ± 0.01 c</td><td>0.00077 ± 0.00033 fg</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="2">DRH</td><td>WW</td><td>6.74 ± 0.7 B</td><td>0.07 ± 0.02 ABC</td><td>0.00153 ± 0.0005 ABC</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>6.72 ± 0.63 BC</td><td>0.07 ± 0.01 ABC</td><td>0.00151 ± 0.00034 ABC</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="2">D27</td><td>WW</td><td>8.75 ± 0.41 ab</td><td>0.08 ± 0.02 a</td><td>0.00129 ± 0.00033 bcd</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>2.14 ± 0.57 gh</td><td>0.02 ± 0.01 c</td><td>0.00037 ± 0.00021 gh</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="6">SCA6 × PA121</td><td rowspan="2">D19</td><td>WW</td><td>7.43 ± 0.8 AB</td><td>0.07 ± 0.02 ABC</td><td>0.00135 ± 0.00065 ABC</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>7.31 ± 0.79 AB</td><td>0.07 ± 0.02 ABC</td><td>0.00148 ± 0.00076 ABC</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="2">DRH</td><td>WW</td><td>8.21 ± 0.63 b</td><td>0.07 ± 0.02 ab</td><td>0.00171 ± 0.00037 a</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>3.88 ± 0.47 e</td><td>0.03 ± 0.01 c</td><td>0.00085 ± 0.00024 ef</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="2">D27</td><td>WW</td><td>7.45 ± 0.63 AB</td><td>0.08 ± 0.02 A</td><td>0.00172 ± 0.00052 A</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>6.71 ± 0.68 BC</td><td>0.05 ± 0.01 C</td><td>0.00088 ± 0.00025 C</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="6">IMC67</td><td rowspan="2">D19</td><td>WW</td><td>9.08 ± 0.48 a</td><td>0.09 ± 0.02 a</td><td>0.00121 ± 0.0002 cde</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>2.65 ± 0.61 fg</td><td>0.03 ± 0.02 c</td><td>0.00058 ± 0.00028 fgh</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="2">DRH</td><td>WW</td><td>8.17 ± 0.83 BC</td><td>0.08 ± 0.02 AB</td><td>0.0018 ± 0.00078 AB</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>6.89 ± 0.75 B</td><td>0.07 ± 0.01 ABC</td><td>0.00122 ± 0.00051 ABC</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="2">D27</td><td>WW</td><td>5.92 ± 0.5 d</td><td>0.06 ± 0.02 b</td><td>0.00148 ± 0.00043 abc</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>3.29 ± 0.37 ef</td><td>0.03 ± 0.01 c</td><td>0.00089 ± 0.00029 def</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="6">SCA6 × PA121</td><td rowspan="2">D19</td><td>WW</td><td>5.6 ± 0.68 D</td><td>0.05 ± 0.02 BC</td><td>0.00093 ± 0.00032 C</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>5.82 ± 0.65 DC</td><td>0.05 ± 0.01 C</td><td>0.00089 ± 0.00021 C</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="2">DRH</td><td>WW</td><td>6.33 ± 0.52 d</td><td>0.07 ± 0.02 ab</td><td>0.00122 ± 0.00042 cde</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>1.54 ± 0.47 h</td><td>0.02 ± 0.01 c</td><td>0.00031 ± 0.0002 h</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="2">D27</td><td>WW</td><td>6.55 ± 0.69 BC</td><td>0.06 ± 0.03 ABC</td><td>0.00108 ± 0.00043 BC</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>6.69 ± 0.6 BC</td><td>0.07 ± 0.02 ABC</td><td>0.00128 ± 0.00035 ABC</td></tr></tbody></table>

A, Photosynthetic rate; gs, stomatal conductance; E, transpiration; WW, well-watered; DS, water-stress phase; DRH, rehydration phase; D19, 19 days of water stress; D27, 27 days of water stress. Lowercase letters indicate the significance of the treatments in the water-deficit stress phase (DS), while uppercase letters represent the significance of the treatments in the rehydration phase (DRH). Average values (n = 12). Significant differences (p < 0.05) determined by two-way ANOVA (progeny × stress). Different letters indicate significant differences according to Tukey's HSD test.
Furthermore, in the stress treatment (DS), A decreased by 50.20% in plants subjected to 19 days without irrigation (D19) (3.55 ± 0.33 µmol CO₂ m⁻² s⁻¹) and even by 74.00% in those subjected to 27 days (2.11 ± 0.57 µmol CO₂ m⁻² s⁻¹). Significant differences were only found at the highest stress level (D27) between IMC 67 OP half-sib and SCA6 × PA121 full-sib progenies. The variable gs did not show differences among progenies after 19 and 27 days of stress. However, IMC67 OP half-sib progenies exhibited a significant 64.90% reduction when plants were left without irrigation for 27 days (D27), compared to those stressed for 19 days (D19). After rehydrating stressed plants (DRH), A, gs, and E values were restored, on average, to 94.2% of the values observed in well-watered (WW) plants (Table 2).

### 3.3. Biomass Accumulation

There was a lower biomass accumulation observed in cacao plants subjected to water-stress treatments (DS) compared to well-watered plants (WW) (Table 3). However, SCA6 × PA121 full-sib progenies were a unique exception, as it accumulated only 6.82% less bio-mass than control plants (BR) when subjected to 19 days without irrigation (D19), without significant differences.

<table><caption>**Table 3.** Biomass accumulate (g) in plant organs of three family progenies under water stress.</caption><thead><tr><th rowspan="2">Progeny</th><th rowspan="2">Water Stress</th><th rowspan="2"></th><th colspan="5">Biomass (g)</th></tr><tr><th>Leaves</th><th>Stem</th><th>Roots</th><th>R/S</th><th>Total</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td rowspan="4">IMC67 × PA121</td><td rowspan="2">D19</td><td>WW</td><td>45.58 ± 2.83 abc</td><td>25.78 ± 2.25 bc</td><td>17.36 ± 1.68 a</td><td>0.24 ± 0.03 a</td><td>88.72 ± 1.42 ab</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>41.44 ± 2.89 cd</td><td>22.58 ± 1.15 cd</td><td>15.78 ± 2.27 abc</td><td>0.25 ± 0.03 a</td><td>79.81 ± 4.45 cd</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="2">D27</td><td>WW</td><td>45.86 ± 3.93 abc</td><td>30.08 ± 2.09 a</td><td>16.13 ± 0.74 ab</td><td>0.21 ± 0.02 abc</td><td>92.07 ± 2.12 ab</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>42.02 ± 2.69 bcd</td><td>23.96 ± 1.85 cd</td><td>13.32 ± 2.27 bcd</td><td>0.20 ± 0.04 abcd</td><td>79.29 ± 3.99 cd</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="4">SCA6 × PA121</td><td rowspan="2">D19</td><td>WW</td><td>48.38 ± 2.93 abc</td><td>23.08 ± 1.56 cd</td><td>13.35 ± 2.10 bcd</td><td>0.19 ± 0.03 bcd</td><td>84.82 ± 2.97 bc</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>42.28 ± 3.53 bcd</td><td>20.74 ± 1.92 d</td><td>12.44 ± 1.47 cd</td><td>0.20 ± 0.03 abcd</td><td>75.46 ± 3.26 cd</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="2">D27</td><td>WW</td><td>50.35 ± 2.66 abc</td><td>29.10 ± 2.22 ab</td><td>13.12 ± 2.34 bcd</td><td>0.17 ± 0.03 cd</td><td>92.57 ± 4.69 ab</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>44.70 ± 2.52 abcd</td><td>23.25 ± 1.47 cd</td><td>10.48 ± 1.99 d</td><td>0.15 ± 0.03 d</td><td>78.43 ± 3.95 cd</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="4">IMC67</td><td rowspan="2">D19</td><td>WW</td><td>46.63 ± 4.53 abc</td><td>26.05 ± 2.34 bc</td><td>17.51 ± 1.18 a</td><td>0.24 ± 0.02 ab</td><td>90.19 ± 4.62 ab</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>41.13 ± 4.45 cd</td><td>21.58 ± 1.94 d</td><td>15.02 ± 1.22 abc</td><td>0.24 ± 0.02 ab</td><td>77.74 ± 4.33 cd</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="2">D27</td><td>WW</td><td>45.17 ± 3.06 abc</td><td>28.94 ± 2.22 ab</td><td>16.30 ± 1.74 ab</td><td>0.22 ± 0.03 abc</td><td>90.41 ± 4.54 ab</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>38.50 ± 2.26 d</td><td>23.36 ± 1.66 cd</td><td>13.82 ± 1.58 bcd</td><td>0.22 ± 0.02 ab</td><td>75.67 ± 4.01 cd</td></tr></tbody></table>

WW, well-watered; DS, water-deficit stress; D19, 19-day water-deficit stress; D27, 27-day water-deficit stress. Average values (n = 6). Significant differences (p < 0.05) using two-way ANOVA (progeny × stress). Different letters indicate significant differences according to Tukey's HSD test.

It was found that the stem was the organ most affected by water deficit, with IMC 67 OP half-sib progenies showing a lower biomass accumulation starting from day 19 of stress (D19). In contrast, IMC67 × PA121 and SCA6 × PA121 full-sib families reduced biomass production only when plants were subjected to 27 days of stress (D27). Furthermore, only IMC67 OP half-sib progenies exhibited lower leaf biomass after 27 days (D27) without watering. No significant differences were found in the root/shoot ratio among the evaluated treatments and family progenies. However, it was observed that in the stress treatment (DS), SCA6 × PA121 exhibited higher biomass by 5.43% in plants that went without irrigation for 19 days (D19), while in IMC67 × PA121 full-sib family and IMC67 OP half-sib progenies, it remained unchanged and was lower than well-watered plants (WW), respectively.

### 3.4. Plant Cd Content

It was observed that the highest concentrations of Cd were found in the stem and leaves of the cacao plants, while the roots had the lowest concentration (Figure 2). Regarding stress responses, plants of the IMC67 × PA121 full-sib family progeny showed a significant increase in Cd concentration in the leaves (30.80%) (Figure 2a) and stem (13.89%) (Figure 2b) when subjected to 19 (D19) and 27 (D27) days of stress, respectively. On the other hand, plants of the IMC67 OP half-sib progenies exhibited a reduction of 34.09% and 26.91% in
Furthermore, in the stress treatment (DS), A decreased by 50.20% in plants subjected to 19 days without irrigation (D19) (3.55 ± 0.33 µmol CO₂ m⁻² s⁻¹) and even by 74.00% in those subjected to 27 days (2.11 ± 0.57 µmol CO₂ m⁻² s⁻¹). Significant differences were only found at the highest stress level (D27) between IMC 67 OP half-sib and SCA6 × PA121 full-sib progenies. The variable gs did not show differences among progenies after 19 and 27 days of stress. However, IMC67 OP half-sib progenies exhibited a significant 64.90% reduction when plants were left without irrigation for 27 days (D27), compared to those stressed for 19 days (D19). After rehydrating stressed plants (DRH), A, gs, and E values were restored, on average, to 94.2% of the values observed in well-watered (WW) plants (Table 2).

### 3.3. Biomass Accumulation

There was a lower biomass accumulation observed in cacao plants subjected to water-stress treatments (DS) compared to well-watered plants (WW) (Table 3). However, SCA6 × PA121 full-sib progenies were a unique exception, as it accumulated only 6.82% less bio-mass than control plants (BR) when subjected to 19 days without irrigation (D19), without significant differences.

<table><caption>**Table 3.** Biomass accumulate (g) in plant organs of three family progenies under water stress.</caption><thead><tr><th rowspan="2">Progeny</th><th rowspan="2">Water Stress</th><th rowspan="2"></th><th colspan="5">Biomass (g)</th></tr><tr><th>Leaves</th><th>Stem</th><th>Roots</th><th>R/S</th><th>Total</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td rowspan="4">IMC67 × PA121</td><td rowspan="2">D19</td><td>WW</td><td>45.58 ± 2.83 abc</td><td>25.78 ± 2.25 bc</td><td>17.36 ± 1.68 a</td><td>0.24 ± 0.03 a</td><td>88.72 ± 1.42 ab</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>41.44 ± 2.89 cd</td><td>22.58 ± 1.15 cd</td><td>15.78 ± 2.27 abc</td><td>0.25 ± 0.03 a</td><td>79.81 ± 4.45 cd</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="2">D27</td><td>WW</td><td>45.86 ± 3.93 abc</td><td>30.08 ± 2.09 a</td><td>16.13 ± 0.74 ab</td><td>0.21 ± 0.02 abc</td><td>92.07 ± 2.12 ab</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>42.02 ± 2.69 bcd</td><td>23.96 ± 1.85 cd</td><td>13.32 ± 2.27 bcd</td><td>0.20 ± 0.04 abcd</td><td>79.29 ± 3.99 cd</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="4">SCA6 × PA121</td><td rowspan="2">D19</td><td>WW</td><td>48.38 ± 2.93 abc</td><td>23.08 ± 1.56 cd</td><td>13.35 ± 2.10 bcd</td><td>0.19 ± 0.03 bcd</td><td>84.82 ± 2.97 bc</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>42.28 ± 3.53 bcd</td><td>20.74 ± 1.92 d</td><td>12.44 ± 1.47 cd</td><td>0.20 ± 0.03 abcd</td><td>75.46 ± 3.26 cd</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="2">D27</td><td>WW</td><td>50.35 ± 2.66 abc</td><td>29.10 ± 2.22 ab</td><td>13.12 ± 2.34 bcd</td><td>0.17 ± 0.03 cd</td><td>92.57 ± 4.69 ab</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>44.70 ± 2.52 abcd</td><td>23.25 ± 1.47 cd</td><td>10.48 ± 1.99 d</td><td>0.15 ± 0.03 d</td><td>78.43 ± 3.95 cd</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="4">IMC67</td><td rowspan="2">D19</td><td>WW</td><td>46.63 ± 4.53 abc</td><td>26.05 ± 2.34 bc</td><td>17.51 ± 1.18 a</td><td>0.24 ± 0.02 ab</td><td>90.19 ± 4.62 ab</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>41.13 ± 4.45 cd</td><td>21.58 ± 1.94 d</td><td>15.02 ± 1.22 abc</td><td>0.24 ± 0.02 ab</td><td>77.74 ± 4.33 cd</td></tr><tr><td rowspan="2">D27</td><td>WW</td><td>45.17 ± 3.06 abc</td><td>28.94 ± 2.22 ab</td><td>16.30 ± 1.74 ab</td><td>0.22 ± 0.03 abc</td><td>90.41 ± 4.54 ab</td></tr><tr><td>DS</td><td>38.50 ± 2.26 d</td><td>23.36 ± 1.66 cd</td><td>13.82 ± 1.58 bcd</td><td>0.22 ± 0.02 ab</td><td>75.67 ± 4.01 cd</td></tr></tbody></table>

WW, well-watered; DS, water-deficit stress; D19, 19-day water-deficit stress; D27, 27-day water-deficit stress. Average values (n = 6). Significant differences (p < 0.05) using two-way ANOVA (progeny × stress). Different letters indicate significant differences according to Tukey's HSD test.

It was found that the stem was the organ most affected by water deficit, with IMC 67 OP half-sib progenies showing a lower biomass accumulation starting from day 19 of stress (D19). In contrast, IMC67 × PA121 and SCA6 × PA121 full-sib families reduced biomass production only when plants were subjected to 27 days of stress (D27). Furthermore, only IMC67 OP half-sib progenies exhibited lower leaf biomass after 27 days (D27) without watering. No significant differences were found in the root/shoot ratio among the evaluated treatments and family progenies. However, it was observed that in the stress treatment (DS), SCA6 × PA121 exhibited higher biomass by 5.43% in plants that went without irrigation for 19 days (D19), while in IMC67 × PA121 full-sib family and IMC67 OP half-sib progenies, it remained unchanged and was lower than well-watered plants (WW), respectively.

### 3.4. Plant Cd Content

It was observed that the highest concentrations of Cd were found in the stem and leaves of the cacao plants, while the roots had the lowest concentration (Figure 2). Regarding stress responses, plants of the IMC67 × PA121 full-sib family progeny showed a significant increase in Cd concentration in the leaves (30.80%) (Figure 2a) and stem (13.89%) (Figure 2b) when subjected to 19 (D19) and 27 (D27) days of stress, respectively. On the other hand, plants of the IMC67 OP half-sib progenies exhibited a reduction of 34.09% and 26.91% in
Cd concentration in the roots during days 19 (D19) and 27 (D27) of water-deficit stress, respectively (Figure 2c).

<figure><img src="image_3.png" /></figure>

**Figure 2.** Cd concentration in (a) leaves, (b) stem, (c) root, and (d) total of three family cacao progenies under water-deficit stress. WW, Well-watered; DS, water-deficit stress; D19, 19-day water-deficit stress; D27, 27-day water-deficit stress. Average values (n = 3). Significant differences (p < 0.05) determined by two-way ANOVA (progeny × stress). Different letters indicate significant differences according to Tukey's test.

In the case of the SCA6 × PA121, a significant increase in Cd concentration was observed only in the stem when subjected to 19 (15.57%) and 27 (18.70%) days of water-deficit stress (Figure 2b). These differences in Cd accumulation in the different organs of the cacao plants from each progeny had a significant impact on the total Cd concentration in the stress treatments. Specifically, an increase in total Cd concentration was observed in the IMC67 × PA121 full-sib family progeny at D19 and D27. An increase in Cd content was also observed in SCA6 × PA121 progeny at D27, while a reduction in total Cd concentration was seen in the IMC67 OP half-sib progenies at D27 (Figure 2d).

Leaves accumulated the highest amount of Cd in the plant, followed by the stem and roots. No significant differences were found in Cd accumulation in the roots between IMC 67 × PA121 and SCA 6 × PA121 full-sib families when subjected to water-stress treatments. However, in plants of the IMC 67 OP half-sib progenies, a significant reduction in Cd accumulation in the roots was observed when subjected to water-deficit stress for 19 (D19) and 27 (D27) days (Figure 3c). Additionally, a 30.77% decrease in Cd accumulation in the stem of IMC 67 OP half-sib progenies under stress for 27 days (D27) was found compared
Cd concentration in the roots during days 19 (D19) and 27 (D27) of water-deficit stress, respectively (Figure 2c).

<figure><img src="image_3.png" /></figure>

**Figure 2.** Cd concentration in (a) leaves, (b) stem, (c) root, and (d) total of three family cacao progenies under water-deficit stress. WW, Well-watered; DS, water-deficit stress; D19, 19-day water-deficit stress; D27, 27-day water-deficit stress. Average values (n = 3). Significant differences (p < 0.05) determined by two-way ANOVA (progeny × stress). Different letters indicate significant differences according to Tukey's test.

In the case of the SCA6 × PA121, a significant increase in Cd concentration was observed only in the stem when subjected to 19 (15.57%) and 27 (18.70%) days of water-deficit stress (Figure 2b). These differences in Cd accumulation in the different organs of the cacao plants from each progeny had a significant impact on the total Cd concentration in the stress treatments. Specifically, an increase in total Cd concentration was observed in the IMC67 × PA121 full-sib family progeny at D19 and D27. An increase in Cd content was also observed in SCA6 × PA121 progeny at D27, while a reduction in total Cd concentration was seen in the IMC67 OP half-sib progenies at D27 (Figure 2d).

Leaves accumulated the highest amount of Cd in the plant, followed by the stem and roots. No significant differences were found in Cd accumulation in the roots between IMC 67 × PA121 and SCA 6 × PA121 full-sib families when subjected to water-stress treatments. However, in plants of the IMC 67 OP half-sib progenies, a significant reduction in Cd accumulation in the roots was observed when subjected to water-deficit stress for 19 (D19) and 27 (D27) days (Figure 3c). Additionally, a 30.77% decrease in Cd accumulation in the stem of IMC 67 OP half-sib progenies under stress for 27 days (D27) was found compared
to well-watered plants (WW) (Figure 3b). No changes in Cd accumulation in the stem were observed for other genotypes and stress levels.

<figure><img src="image_4.png" /><figcaption>**Figure 3.** Cd accumulation in (a) leaves, (b) stem, (c) roots, and (d) total of three family cacao progenies under water-deficit stress. WW, Well-watered; DS, water-deficit stress; D19, 19-day water-deficit stress; D27, 27-day water-deficit stress. Average values (n = 3). Significant differences (p < 0.05) determined by two-way ANOVA (progeny × stress). Different letters indicate significant differences according to Tukey's test.</figcaption></figure>

Regarding the leaves, no significant differences were found in Cd accumulation between treatments on both day 19 and day 27 of stress. However, there was a trend towards reduced Cd accumulation in the leaves of the IMC 67 OP half-sib progenies when subjected to 27 days of stress, with a decrease of 26.77% (Figure 3a). Overall, the reduction in Cd accumulation in all three organs of IMC 67 plants contributed to a 29.03% decrease in total Cd accumulation in the plant (Figure 3d). No significant differences were found in total Cd accumulation between the full-sib families.

### 3.5. Translocation Factor (TF)

The translocation factor (TF) increased when plants of the IMC67 × PA121 full-sib family and IMC 67 OP half-sib progenies were subjected to 27 (D27) and 19 (D19) days of water stress, respectively (Figure 4). Plants of the SCA6 × PA121 did not show significant differences in Cd accumulation between well-watered (WW) and stressed (DS) plants.
to well-watered plants (WW) (Figure 3b). No changes in Cd accumulation in the stem were observed for other genotypes and stress levels.

<figure><img src="image_4.png" /><figcaption>**Figure 3.** Cd accumulation in (a) leaves, (b) stem, (c) roots, and (d) total of three family cacao progenies under water-deficit stress. WW, Well-watered; DS, water-deficit stress; D19, 19-day water-deficit stress; D27, 27-day water-deficit stress. Average values (n = 3). Significant differences (*p* < 0.05) determined by two-way ANOVA (progeny × stress). Different letters indicate significant differences according to Tukey's test.</figcaption></figure>

Regarding the leaves, no significant differences were found in Cd accumulation between treatments on both day 19 and day 27 of stress. However, there was a trend towards reduced Cd accumulation in the leaves of the IMC 67 OP half-sib progenies when subjected to 27 days of stress, with a decrease of 26.77% (Figure 3a). Overall, the reduction in Cd accumulation in all three organs of IMC 67 plants contributed to a 29.03% decrease in total Cd accumulation in the plant (Figure 3d). No significant differences were found in total Cd accumulation between the full-sib families.

### 3.5. Translocation Factor (TF)

The translocation factor (TF) increased when plants of the IMC67 × PA121 full-sib family and IMC 67 OP half-sib progenies were subjected to 27 (D27) and 19 (D19) days of water stress, respectively (Figure 4). Plants of the SCA6 × PA121 did not show significant differences in Cd accumulation between well-watered (WW) and stressed (DS) plants.
<figure><img src="image_5.png" /><figcaption>**Figure 4.** Cd Translocation Factor (TF) in three family cacao progenies under water stress. WW, Well-watered; DS, water-deficit stress; D19, 19-day water-deficit stress; D27, 27-day water-deficit stress. Average values (n = 3). Significant differences (p < 0.05) determined by two-way ANOVA (progeny × stress). Different letters indicate significant differences according to Tukey's test.</figcaption></figure>

**4. Discussion**

The leaf water potential (Ψleaf) serves as an indicator of the hydration status of plants and their capacity to mitigate water loss through transpiration [36]. Several studies suggest that young cacao plants experience moderate stress when Ψleaf ranges from -0.8 to -1.5 MPa and severe stress below -1.76 MPa [32,37,38].

In accordance with our results, after subjecting the plants to water deficit for 19 days (D19), plants of the SCA6 × PA121 exhibited moderate stress (-1.5 MPa), whereas IMC67 × PA121 full-sib and IMC67 OP half-sib families experienced intermediate stress (-1.9 and -1.8 MPa, respectively), lying between moderate and severe stress (Table 1). After 27 days of water deficit (D27), all three progenies displayed Ψleaf values indicative of severe stress. In cacao, drought-tolerant progenies exhibit less negative Ψleaf values than susceptible ones [32,39], implying that the SCA6 × PA121 is more drought-tolerant than IMC67 × PA121 full-sib and IMC67 OP half-sib families.

Stomatal regulation sensitivity to water stress is a crucial physiological trait, determining water loss during transpiration [36]. According to Carr and Lockwoods (2011), Theobroma cacao begins partial stomatal closure at a Ψleaf value of around -1.5 MPa [40]. At this Ψleaf value (-1.5 MPa), the SCA6 × PA121 family exhibited a 51.43% reduction in stomatal conductance (gs) after 19 days of water stress (D19) (Table 2). These findings indicate that stomatal closure likely commenced when leaf water potential was greater than -1.5 MPa, illustrating high sensitivity in stomatal regulation, a significant physiological trait for drought tolerance [36,41].

The correlation between Ψleaf and photosynthesis (A) (r > 0.94) (Figure 5) and the average reduction in stomatal conductance (gs) among the evaluated progenies (48.36% and 67.35% at D19 and D27, respectively) suggest a responsive stomatal behavior in regulating water loss through transpiration, consequently reducing A due to decreased CO2 consumption. This behavior supports the hypothesis that the photosynthetic response to water deficit is strongly governed by stomatal conductance in cacao plants [30,32] and other perennial species [42–44].
<figure><img src="image_5.png" /><figcaption>**Figure 4.** Cd Translocation Factor (TF) in three family cacao progenies under water stress. WW, Well-watered; DS, water-deficit stress; D19, 19-day water-deficit stress; D27, 27-day water-deficit stress. Average values (n = 3). Significant differences (p < 0.05) determined by two-way ANOVA (progeny × stress). Different letters indicate significant differences according to Tukey's test.</figcaption></figure>

**4. Discussion**

The leaf water potential (Ψleaf) serves as an indicator of the hydration status of plants and their capacity to mitigate water loss through transpiration [36]. Several studies suggest that young cacao plants experience moderate stress when Ψleaf ranges from -0.8 to -1.5 MPa and severe stress below -1.76 MPa [32,37,38].

In accordance with our results, after subjecting the plants to water deficit for 19 days (D19), plants of the SCA6 × PA121 exhibited moderate stress (-1.5 MPa), whereas IMC67 × PA121 full-sib and IMC67 OP half-sib families experienced intermediate stress (-1.9 and -1.8 MPa, respectively), lying between moderate and severe stress (Table 1). After 27 days of water deficit (D27), all three progenies displayed Ψleaf values indicative of severe stress. In cacao, drought-tolerant progenies exhibit less negative Ψleaf values than susceptible ones [32,39], implying that the SCA6 × PA121 is more drought-tolerant than IMC67 × PA121 full-sib and IMC67 OP half-sib families.

Stomatal regulation sensitivity to water stress is a crucial physiological trait, determining water loss during transpiration [36]. According to Carr and Lockwoods (2011), Theobroma cacao begins partial stomatal closure at a Ψleaf value of around -1.5 MPa [40]. At this Ψleaf value (-1.5 MPa), the SCA6 × PA121 family exhibited a 51.43% reduction in stomatal conductance (gs) after 19 days of water stress (D19) (Table 2). These findings indicate that stomatal closure likely commenced when leaf water potential was greater than -1.5 MPa, illustrating high sensitivity in stomatal regulation, a significant physiological trait for drought tolerance [36,41].

The correlation between Ψleaf and photosynthesis (A) (r > 0.94) (Figure 5) and the average reduction in stomatal conductance (gs) among the evaluated progenies (48.36% and 67.35% at D19 and D27, respectively) suggest a responsive stomatal behavior in regulating water loss through transpiration, consequently reducing A due to decreased CO2 consumption. This behavior supports the hypothesis that the photosynthetic response to water deficit is strongly governed by stomatal conductance in cacao plants [30,32] and other perennial species [42–44].
<figure><img src="image_6.png" /><figcaption>**Figure 5.** Pearson Correlation of physiological, biochemical, and Cd content variables of three family cacao progenies: (a) IMC67 × PA121, (b) SCA6 × PA121 and (c) IMC67. Ψleaf, Leaf water potential; A, photosynthetic rate; gs, stomatal conductance; E, transpiration; DW_leaf, leaf dry weight; DW_stem, stem dry weight; DW_roots, root dry weight; DW_tot, total plant dry weight; R/S, root/shoot ratio; Cd_leaf, Cd concentration in leaves; Cd_stem, Cd concentration in stem; Cd_roots, Cd concentration in roots; Cd_tot, total Cd concentration in plant; Acu_leaf, Cd accumulation in leaves; Acu_stem, Cd accumulation in stem; Acu_roots, Cd accumulation in roots; Acu_tot, Cd accumulation in plant; TF, Cd translocation factor.</figcaption></figure>

Cadmium (Cd) exists in soil primarily as Cd<sup>+2</sup> ions or in various organic and inorganic complexes [26,45,46]. Soil is considered contaminated by Cd when total content exceeds 3 mg kg<sup>-1</sup> [47,48] or when the bioavailable Cd concentration surpasses 0.001 mg kg<sup>-1</sup> [33]. According to Bravo et al. (2021), the maximum permissible concentration of soluble Cd in soils for cacao cultivation is 0.08 mg kg<sup>-1</sup> [24]. In the soil used for this experiment, a soluble Cd concentration of 0.356 mg kg<sup>-1</sup> was determined, indicating that cacao plants grew in soil with Cd contamination.

Cd absorption and accumulation in cacao plants are influenced by various factors, including soil pH, Cd availability in the soil, genotype, and plant age [49–51]. In this experiment, it is assumed that there were differences between the treatments in two of the most significant factors affecting Cd absorption in cacao plants: genotype and Cd availability in the soil [50]. The latter variable could have decreased due to the reduced water availability in the soil under water-stress treatments [52,53].

Plants of the IMC67 × PA121 full-sib family displayed the highest Cd accumulation in the plant, averaging 4.35 mg in well-watered plants (WW), followed by SCA6 × PA121 with an average of 4.20 mg, and IMC67 OP half-sib with 3.05 mg, showing significant differences (Figure 3). These results align with Lewis et al. (2018), who classified IMC67 as a low Cd accumulator genotype [10]. The authors suggest that the low Cd accumulation in the IMC67 is due to multiple regulation points during Cd transport from the soil to cacao
<figure><img src="image_6.png" /><figcaption>**Figure 5.** Pearson Correlation of physiological, biochemical, and Cd content variables of three family cacao progenies: (a) IMC67 × PA121, (b) SCA6 × PA121 and (c) IMC67. Ψleaf, Leaf water potential; A, photosynthetic rate; gs, stomatal conductance; E, transpiration; DW_leaf, leaf dry weight; DW_stem, stem dry weight; DW_roots, root dry weight; DW_tot, total plant dry weight; R/S, root/shoot ratio; Cd_leaf, Cd concentration in leaves; Cd_stem, Cd concentration in stem; Cd_roots, Cd concentration in roots; Cd_tot, total Cd concentration in plant; Acu_leaf, Cd accumulation in leaves; Acu_stem, Cd accumulation in stem; Acu_roots, Cd accumulation in roots; Acu_tot, Cd accumulation in plant; TF, Cd translocation factor.</figcaption></figure>

Cadmium (Cd) exists in soil primarily as Cd<sup>+2</sup> ions or in various organic and inorganic complexes [26,45,46]. Soil is considered contaminated by Cd when total content exceeds 3 mg kg<sup>-1</sup> [47,48] or when the bioavailable Cd concentration surpasses 0.001 mg kg<sup>-1</sup> [33]. According to Bravo et al. (2021), the maximum permissible concentration of soluble Cd in soils for cacao cultivation is 0.08 mg kg<sup>-1</sup> [24]. In the soil used for this experiment, a soluble Cd concentration of 0.356 mg kg<sup>-1</sup> was determined, indicating that cacao plants grew in soil with Cd contamination.

Cd absorption and accumulation in cacao plants are influenced by various factors, including soil pH, Cd availability in the soil, genotype, and plant age [49–51]. In this experiment, it is assumed that there were differences between the treatments in two of the most significant factors affecting Cd absorption in cacao plants: genotype and Cd availability in the soil [50]. The latter variable could have decreased due to the reduced water availability in the soil under water-stress treatments [52,53].

Plants of the IMC67 × PA121 full-sib family displayed the highest Cd accumulation in the plant, averaging 4.35 mg in well-watered plants (WW), followed by SCA6 × PA121 with an average of 4.20 mg, and IMC67 OP half-sib with 3.05 mg, showing significant differences (Figure 3). These results align with Lewis et al. (2018), who classified IMC67 as a low Cd accumulator genotype [10]. The authors suggest that the low Cd accumulation in the IMC67 is due to multiple regulation points during Cd transport from the soil to cacao
roots, shoots, and seeds (cotyledons and testa), possibly mediated by a range of ligands and transport proteins [10].

Genetic influence on Cd absorption and accumulation in plants has been reported in crops such as cacao [10,13,54], soybean, and rice [55]. These variations in Cd accumulation among genotypes are attributed to diverse factors, including varietal vigor, root size and morphology, the activity of ion metal uptake transporters on the root surface, the roots' ability to produce exudates binding to metal ions, and the roots' interaction with soil microorganisms [10,56,57]. This study lacks detailed insight into the mechanisms underlying differential Cd accumulation in the evaluated progenies. Nonetheless, the divergent response of progenies can serve as a tool for investigating Cd accumulation mechanisms in future studies.

Cd content, in terms of concentration, tends to increase in plants experiencing water-deficit conditions due to reduced biomass accumulation [22,23]. While no significant correlation was found between Cd concentration and accumulated biomass in different organs (Figure 2), an increase in total Cd concentration was observed in the IMC67 × PA121 full-sib family. This could be explained by a significant decrease in plant dry mass on days 19 and 27 of water stress (Table 3). Similarly, the elevated Cd concentration in SCA6 × PA121 after 27 days of stress could result from reduced biomass accumulation under that stress level.

Despite the lack of correlation between Cd concentration and cacao plant dry mass, significant correlations were observed in the IMC67 × PA121 full-sib family between leaf water potential (Ψleaf) and Cd concentration in leaves (r = -0.67), stems (r = -0.61), and total concentration (r = -0.58) (Figure 5a). Furthermore, a significant correlation was found between Ψleaf and Cd concentration in stems (r = -0.74) in the SCA6 × PA121 family. These correlations indicate that the plant's water status influences Cd accumulation in its organs, and this relationship is not solely determined by reduced biomass accumulation under water-deficit conditions. This is confirmed in the case of the IMC67 OP half-sib family, in which despite reduced accumulated biomass due to water-stress treatment (Table 3), no increase in plant Cd concentration was observed (Figure 2).

Several factors can diminish Cd absorption and accumulation in plants under water-deficit conditions [17], including root morphology and reduced transpiration due to stomatal closure [53,58,59]. However, this behavior was only observed in the IMC67 OP half-sib, with reduced Cd accumulation in different plant organs (Figure 3).

Importantly, a positive correlation between transpiration (E) and total Cd accumulation (r = 0.78) was found in the IMC67 OP half-sib (Figure 5c). This suggests that the significant 64.90% reduction in transpiration in the IMC67 OP half-sib between days 19 and 27 of stress (Table 2) directly impacted Cd absorption and accumulation by cacao plants. This reduced transpiration explains the 21.06% decrease in Cd concentration in roots between day 19 and day 27 of stress (Figure 2). These findings align with previous studies, highlighting the influence of genotype and stress duration on heavy metal accumulation in plants [17,19,22,23]. In other progenies, no significant effect of water deficit on Cd accumulation was evident, possibly due to their transpiration being less sensitive to reduced leaf water potential between days 19 and 27 of water stress (Table 2).

Previous research has demonstrated that water stress can influence both Cd absorption and translocation in plants, as observed in species such as Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) and castor bean (Ricinus communis) [16]. Additionally, various authors assert that the amount of Cd accumulated and translocated varies by species and genotype [10,13,60,61]. Consistent with this, significant differences were observed in this study between stress levels and progenies in Cd translocation within cacao plants (Figure 4).

Considering that the translocation factor (TF) indicates the ability of selected cacao progenies to transport Cd from roots to the aboveground parts [11,62], it can be affirmed that the evaluated cacao progenies, particularly IMC67 OP half-sib and IMC67 × PA121 full-sib progenies, exhibited greater Cd translocation from roots to aboveground parts when subjected to stress (DS) for 19 and 27 days, respectively, compared to well-watered plants
roots, shoots, and seeds (cotyledons and testa), possibly mediated by a range of ligands and transport proteins [10].

Genetic influence on Cd absorption and accumulation in plants has been reported in crops such as cacao [10,13,54], soybean, and rice [55]. These variations in Cd accumulation among genotypes are attributed to diverse factors, including varietal vigor, root size and morphology, the activity of ion metal uptake transporters on the root surface, the roots' ability to produce exudates binding to metal ions, and the roots' interaction with soil microorganisms [10,56,57]. This study lacks detailed insight into the mechanisms underlying differential Cd accumulation in the evaluated progenies. Nonetheless, the divergent response of progenies can serve as a tool for investigating Cd accumulation mechanisms in future studies.

Cd content, in terms of concentration, tends to increase in plants experiencing water-deficit conditions due to reduced biomass accumulation [22,23]. While no significant correlation was found between Cd concentration and accumulated biomass in different organs (Figure 2), an increase in total Cd concentration was observed in the IMC67 × PA121 full-sib family. This could be explained by a significant decrease in plant dry mass on days 19 and 27 of water stress (Table 3). Similarly, the elevated Cd concentration in SCA6 × PA121 after 27 days of stress could result from reduced biomass accumulation under that stress level.

Despite the lack of correlation between Cd concentration and cacao plant dry mass, significant correlations were observed in the IMC67 × PA121 full-sib family between leaf water potential (Ψleaf) and Cd concentration in leaves (r = -0.67), stems (r = -0.61), and total concentration (r = -0.58) (Figure 5a). Furthermore, a significant correlation was found between Ψleaf and Cd concentration in stems (r = -0.74) in the SCA6 × PA121 family. These correlations indicate that the plant's water status influences Cd accumulation in its organs, and this relationship is not solely determined by reduced biomass accumulation under water-deficit conditions. This is confirmed in the case of the IMC67 OP half-sib family, in which despite reduced accumulated biomass due to water-stress treatment (Table 3), no increase in plant Cd concentration was observed (Figure 2).

Several factors can diminish Cd absorption and accumulation in plants under water-deficit conditions [17], including root morphology and reduced transpiration due to stomatal closure [53,58,59]. However, this behavior was only observed in the IMC67 OP half-sib, with reduced Cd accumulation in different plant organs (Figure 3).

Importantly, a positive correlation between transpiration (E) and total Cd accumulation (r = 0.78) was found in the IMC67 OP half-sib (Figure 5c). This suggests that the significant 64.90% reduction in transpiration in the IMC67 OP half-sib between days 19 and 27 of stress (Table 2) directly impacted Cd absorption and accumulation by cacao plants. This reduced transpiration explains the 21.06% decrease in Cd concentration in roots between day 19 and day 27 of stress (Figure 2). These findings align with previous studies, highlighting the influence of genotype and stress duration on heavy metal accumulation in plants [17,19,22,23]. In other progenies, no significant effect of water deficit on Cd accumulation was evident, possibly due to their transpiration being less sensitive to reduced leaf water potential between days 19 and 27 of water stress (Table 2).

Previous research has demonstrated that water stress can influence both Cd absorption and translocation in plants, as observed in species such as Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) and castor bean (Ricinus communis) [16]. Additionally, various authors assert that the amount of Cd accumulated and translocated varies by species and genotype [10,13,60,61]. Consistent with this, significant differences were observed in this study between stress levels and progenies in Cd translocation within cacao plants (Figure 4).

Considering that the translocation factor (TF) indicates the ability of selected cacao progenies to transport Cd from roots to the aboveground parts [11,62], it can be affirmed that the evaluated cacao progenies, particularly IMC67 OP half-sib and IMC67 × PA121 full-sib progenies, exhibited greater Cd translocation from roots to aboveground parts when subjected to stress (DS) for 19 and 27 days, respectively, compared to well-watered plants
(WW) (Figure 5). In contrast, the SCA6 × PA121 family showed no significant changes in translocation factor in response to water deficit.

It is pertinent to emphasize that despite plants from progeny IMC67 OP half-sib accumulating the lowest amount of Cd under moderate water-stress conditions ($\Psi_{leaf} = -1.8$ MPa) (Figure 3d), they exhibited the highest capacity to translocate Cd from roots to aboveground parts (Figure 5) when subjected to 19 days of stress (D19). This is attributed to IMC67 OP half-sib plants maintaining the highest transpiration at this stage of stress, with 12.94% more than the IMC67 × PA121 full-sib and SCA6 × PA121 progenies. Conversely, progeny SCA6 × PA121, which displayed high Cd accumulation, did not exhibit increased translocation under water-deficit conditions. While both IMC67 × PA121 full-sib and SCA6 × PA121 progenies displayed a correlation between the translocation factor and transpiration (Figure 5a,b), it can be observed that for these two progenies, a reduction in transpiration ranging from 50 to 52.94% under water-deficit conditions (Table 2) was insufficient to significantly enhance Cd translocation to aboveground parts (Figure 4). These outcomes suggest that both genotype and plant water status, as well as their interaction, influence Cd translocation capacity.

Typically, Cd content is higher in roots compared to aboveground parts due to roots acting as an effective barrier to limit Cd translocation in plants [11]. For instance, a study by Castro et al. (2015) on 2-month-old cacao plants subjected to different CdCl₂ solutions through seed imbibition found greater Cd accumulation in roots than in stems and leaves [9]. However, the presence of Cd accumulation in the aboveground parts of cacao plants indicates that the metal was not entirely immobilized by roots. Additionally, Pereira de Araújo et al. (2017) conducted a study on 4-month-old cacao plants exposed to different Cd concentrations in soil and found that Cd was equally absorbed and accumulated in all plant organs, implying Cd translocation from roots to aboveground parts [8].

In contrast, a study by Fernández-Paz et al. (2021) on 8-month-old cacao root-stocks revealed higher Cd concentrations in leaves ($85 \text{ mg kg}^{-1}$) compared to roots ($40 \text{ mg kg}^{-1}$) [12]. While tolerance to heavy-metal-contaminated soils is generally associated with metal retention in root cells to prevent its translocation to aboveground parts [11,60], there are hyperaccumulating plants that transport most of the heavy metal to aboveground parts through the xylem [63]. Although it may seem that this is the case in cacao, greater Cd accumulation in leaves rather than roots is influenced by genotype and plant age [51]. These factors underscore the complexity of Cd accumulation in cacao and emphasize the importance of considering multiple variables in interpreting Cd distribution patterns across different plant tissues.

Cd concentrations found in the leaves of the evaluated progenies are below levels reported in cacao plants under one year of age. According to Fernández-Paz et al. (2021), leaf Cd values ranged from 80 to $100 \text{ mg kg}^{-1}$ [12], De Almeida et al. (2022) recorded an average of $200 \text{ mg kg}^{-1}$ [11], and Pereira de Araújo et al. (2017) detected concentrations of 388.970 $\text{mg kg}^{-1}$ [8]. These differences are attributed to genotype, initial Cd concentrations present in the soil, and the use of highly soluble Cd sources, such as $\text{Cd(NO}_3)_2$ and CdCl$_2$, in the mentioned studies. Importantly, no external Cd sources were added to the soil in this experiment, which could influence Cd availability for plant uptake [46].

In the case of cacao plants older than ten years growing in Cd-contaminated soils without external soluble sources, as in this study, Cd accumulations in leaves are considerably lower than concentrations reported in young plants. Previous studies documented maximum values of $5.42 \text{ mg kg}^{-1}$ in leaves [10,13,64]. It has been demonstrated in cacao and various species that plant age plays a pivotal role in Cd absorption and accumulation [49,57]. Argüello et al. (2019) found that young cacao plants absorb more Cd than older ones [49]. This has been associated with deeper roots containing a lower amount of bioavailable Cd, higher calcium (Ca) content in mature plantations potentially blocking Cd absorption [49], greater growth in young plants, and higher biomass in older trees, leading to reduced Cd concentration in plant tissues [65].
(WW) (Figure 5). In contrast, the SCA6 × PA121 family showed no significant changes in translocation factor in response to water deficit.

It is pertinent to emphasize that despite plants from progeny IMC67 OP half-sib accumulating the lowest amount of Cd under moderate water-stress conditions ($\Psi_{leaf} = -1.8$ MPa) (Figure 3d), they exhibited the highest capacity to translocate Cd from roots to aboveground parts (Figure 5) when subjected to 19 days of stress (D19). This is attributed to IMC67 OP half-sib plants maintaining the highest transpiration at this stage of stress, with 12.94% more than the IMC67 × PA121 full-sib and SCA6 × PA121 progenies. Conversely, progeny SCA6 × PA121, which displayed high Cd accumulation, did not exhibit increased translocation under water-deficit conditions. While both IMC67 × PA121 full-sib and SCA6 × PA121 progenies displayed a correlation between the translocation factor and transpiration (Figure 5a,b), it can be observed that for these two progenies, a reduction in transpiration ranging from 50 to 52.94% under water-deficit conditions (Table 2) was insufficient to significantly enhance Cd translocation to aboveground parts (Figure 4). These outcomes suggest that both genotype and plant water status, as well as their interaction, influence Cd translocation capacity.

Typically, Cd content is higher in roots compared to aboveground parts due to roots acting as an effective barrier to limit Cd translocation in plants [11]. For instance, a study by Castro et al. (2015) on 2-month-old cacao plants subjected to different CdCl₂ solutions through seed imbibition found greater Cd accumulation in roots than in stems and leaves [9]. However, the presence of Cd accumulation in the aboveground parts of cacao plants indicates that the metal was not entirely immobilized by roots. Additionally, Pereira de Araújo et al. (2017) conducted a study on 4-month-old cacao plants exposed to different Cd concentrations in soil and found that Cd was equally absorbed and accumulated in all plant organs, implying Cd translocation from roots to aboveground parts [8].

In contrast, a study by Fernández-Paz et al. (2021) on 8-month-old cacao root-stocks revealed higher Cd concentrations in leaves ($85 \text{ mg kg}^{-1}$) compared to roots ($40 \text{ mg kg}^{-1}$) [12]. While tolerance to heavy-metal-contaminated soils is generally associated with metal retention in root cells to prevent its translocation to aboveground parts [11,60], there are hyperaccumulating plants that transport most of the heavy metal to aboveground parts through the xylem [63]. Although it may seem that this is the case in cacao, greater Cd accumulation in leaves rather than roots is influenced by genotype and plant age [51]. These factors underscore the complexity of Cd accumulation in cacao and emphasize the importance of considering multiple variables in interpreting Cd distribution patterns across different plant tissues.

Cd concentrations found in the leaves of the evaluated progenies are below levels reported in cacao plants under one year of age. According to Fernández-Paz et al. (2021), leaf Cd values ranged from 80 to $100 \text{ mg kg}^{-1}$ [12], De Almeida et al. (2022) recorded an average of $200 \text{ mg kg}^{-1}$ [11], and Pereira de Araújo et al. (2017) detected concentrations of 388.970 $\text{mg kg}^{-1}$ [8]. These differences are attributed to genotype, initial Cd concentrations present in the soil, and the use of highly soluble Cd sources, such as $\text{Cd(NO}_3)_2$ and CdCl$_2$, in the mentioned studies. Importantly, no external Cd sources were added to the soil in this experiment, which could influence Cd availability for plant uptake [46].

In the case of cacao plants older than ten years growing in Cd-contaminated soils without external soluble sources, as in this study, Cd accumulations in leaves are considerably lower than concentrations reported in young plants. Previous studies documented maximum values of $5.42 \text{ mg kg}^{-1}$ in leaves [10,13,64]. It has been demonstrated in cacao and various species that plant age plays a pivotal role in Cd absorption and accumulation [49,57]. Argüello et al. (2019) found that young cacao plants absorb more Cd than older ones [49]. This has been associated with deeper roots containing a lower amount of bioavailable Cd, higher calcium (Ca) content in mature plantations potentially blocking Cd absorption [49], greater growth in young plants, and higher biomass in older trees, leading to reduced Cd concentration in plant tissues [65].
On the other hand, young plants exhibit less developed and less lignified root systems compared to older plants. Consequently, apoplastic barriers, such as Casparian bands are not fully suberized in young plants, particularly in young roots or apical root areas [66]. According to Song et al. (2019), in *Cunninghamia lanceolata*, Casparian bands fulfill their barrier function during the secondary stage of endodermis development, i.e., after lignin and suberin are deposited in the cell wall [67]. Thus, it is plausible that young plants have a reduced capacity to discriminate against Cd in roots before it enters the xylem and is transported to leaves [66].

According to Mingorance et al. (2007), a translocation factor (TF) > 1 indicates that cacao plant organs are enriched with Cd [68]. In the case of the evaluated progenies in our study, a TF above 4 was observed, signifying that the aboveground organs of these young cacao plants were significantly enriched with Cd. Nevertheless, it is important to note that the transport of Cd from the roots to the aerial part may exhibit variations after grafting a scion onto the rootstock, influenced by the relationship between the two parts [12].

Cd translocation in plants is associated with metal retention in roots and loading activity in the xylem [69,70]. Based on the observed translocation factor (TF) values in the progenies of this study, it can be inferred that there is no efficient restriction in Cd movement to the vascular cylinder, suggesting that roots might not be fully suberized due to endodermis immaturity [71].

In young roots or apical root areas where apoplastic barriers, such as Casparian bands, are not fully developed, a substantial amount of absorbed Cd may be directly transferred from the xylem to the phloem in woody plant parts, such as the stem [72]. A study conducted by Engbersen et al. (2019) on different cacao genotypes found that a substantial portion of the Cd entering the roots could be transported from stems and branches to the cacao seed without passing through the leaves [73]. This demonstrates that the stem can be an organ in which the cacao plant accumulates this metal. Findings by Moore et al. (2020) suggest that Cd in the stem may be sequestered through biochemical pathways similar to those occurring in roots [74].

Once Cd reaches the vascular cylinder, this metal can re-enter the stem's apoplast before being loaded into the xylem vessels [75]. Studies have detected the presence of Cd in the walls of xylem vessels in various species [76], which could explain the high Cd accumulation in the stems of plants belonging to the IMC67 × PA121 full-sib and SCA6 × PA121 progenies. Once in the xylem, this Cd can bind to ligands like phytochelatins and carboxylic acids in the vacuole and cell walls [60,77], and its loading capacity depends on transporter activity [60].

Furthermore, research in other species, such as red maple, has demonstrated that the combined stress from drought and heavy metals can reduce the density of xylem vessels, resulting in an increase in parenchyma cells in the xylem [78]. This increase in parenchyma under combined stress conditions could explain the storage of Cd translocated from the root to the stem in the IMC67 × PA121 full-sib and SCA6 × PA121 progenies. In the case of the IMC67 × PA121 full-sib, this is especially pertinent since during moderate stress (D19), Cd was primarily concentrated in the leaves, whereas under severe stress (D27), Cd concentration shifted to the stem (Figure 2), possibly due to a reduction in vessel density and an increase in xylem parenchyma cells [78].

These findings underscore the complexity of Cd uptake and translocation processes in plants as well as the influence of genetic and environmental factors, like water deficit, on these mechanisms.

## 5. Conclusions

Water deficit can lead to an increase in Cd concentration in cacao plants due to reduced biomass accumulation under stress. However, Cd absorption and accumulation in the plant can also be influenced by limited transpiration, depending on the genotype and stress level.

The accumulation of Cd is largely determined by genotype, and the IMC67 OP half-sib progeny stands out as a low-accumulation genotype. However, it is important to note that
On the other hand, young plants exhibit less developed and less lignified root systems compared to older plants. Consequently, apoplastic barriers, such as Casparian bands are not fully suberized in young plants, particularly in young roots or apical root areas [66]. According to Song et al. (2019), in *Cunninghamia lanceolata*, Casparian bands fulfill their barrier function during the secondary stage of endodermis development, i.e., after lignin and suberin are deposited in the cell wall [67]. Thus, it is plausible that young plants have a reduced capacity to discriminate against Cd in roots before it enters the xylem and is transported to leaves [66].

According to Mingorance et al. (2007), a translocation factor (TF) > 1 indicates that cacao plant organs are enriched with Cd [68]. In the case of the evaluated progenies in our study, a TF above 4 was observed, signifying that the aboveground organs of these young cacao plants were significantly enriched with Cd. Nevertheless, it is important to note that the transport of Cd from the roots to the aerial part may exhibit variations after grafting a scion onto the rootstock, influenced by the relationship between the two parts [12].

Cd translocation in plants is associated with metal retention in roots and loading activity in the xylem [69,70]. Based on the observed translocation factor (TF) values in the progenies of this study, it can be inferred that there is no efficient restriction in Cd movement to the vascular cylinder, suggesting that roots might not be fully suberized due to endodermis immaturity [71].

In young roots or apical root areas where apoplastic barriers, such as Casparian bands, are not fully developed, a substantial amount of absorbed Cd may be directly transferred from the xylem to the phloem in woody plant parts, such as the stem [72]. A study conducted by Engbersen et al. (2019) on different cacao genotypes found that a substantial portion of the Cd entering the roots could be transported from stems and branches to the cacao seed without passing through the leaves [73]. This demonstrates that the stem can be an organ in which the cacao plant accumulates this metal. Findings by Moore et al. (2020) suggest that Cd in the stem may be sequestered through biochemical pathways similar to those occurring in roots [74].

Once Cd reaches the vascular cylinder, this metal can re-enter the stem's apoplast before being loaded into the xylem vessels [75]. Studies have detected the presence of Cd in the walls of xylem vessels in various species [76], which could explain the high Cd accumulation in the stems of plants belonging to the IMC67 × PA121 full-sib and SCA6 × PA121 progenies. Once in the xylem, this Cd can bind to ligands like phytochelatins and carboxylic acids in the vacuole and cell walls [60,77], and its loading capacity depends on transporter activity [60].

Furthermore, research in other species, such as red maple, has demonstrated that the combined stress from drought and heavy metals can reduce the density of xylem vessels, resulting in an increase in parenchyma cells in the xylem [78]. This increase in parenchyma under combined stress conditions could explain the storage of Cd translocated from the root to the stem in the IMC67 × PA121 full-sib and SCA6 × PA121 progenies. In the case of the IMC67 × PA121 full-sib, this is especially pertinent since during moderate stress (D19), Cd was primarily concentrated in the leaves, whereas under severe stress (D27), Cd concentration shifted to the stem (Figure 2), possibly due to a reduction in vessel density and an increase in xylem parenchyma cells [78].

These findings underscore the complexity of Cd uptake and translocation processes in plants as well as the influence of genetic and environmental factors, like water deficit, on these mechanisms.

## 5. Conclusions

Water deficit can lead to an increase in Cd concentration in cacao plants due to reduced biomass accumulation under stress. However, Cd absorption and accumulation in the plant can also be influenced by limited transpiration, depending on the genotype and stress level.

The accumulation of Cd is largely determined by genotype, and the IMC67 OP half-sib progeny stands out as a low-accumulation genotype. However, it is important to note that
under conditions of moderate water deficit, an increase in Cd translocation from the roots to the aerial part of the plant was observed.

It is relevant to highlight that the movement of Cd from the roots to the aerial part may vary in an ungrafted plant compared to a grafting system between scion and rootstock. Therefore, a study is required to assess this translocation in grafts with these specific progenies to determine if it occurs similarly. Progeny SCA6 × PA121 exhibits promising traits as a potential rootstock due to its ability to withstand water stress and maintain stable Cd accumulation. However, further evaluation is needed regarding Cd accumulation and its translocation from the rootstock to the grafted scion under water-deficit conditions. Additionally, it is important to take into account other factors, such as the age of the plant, which may influence the amount of Cd absorbed and transported from the rootstock to the canopy.

This study initiates the discussion of important considerations for the proper selection of cacao genetic materials in regions characterized by droughts and high soil Cd concentrations. A deeper understanding of the interaction between water stress and Cd accumulation in cacao is warranted, potentially opening new avenues for enhancing the adaptation and performance of this crop under challenging conditions.

For future research aimed at assessing the interaction between water deficit and Cd accumulation in cacao, it is recommended to incorporate additional molecular and biochemical analyses. These analyses could encompass the investigation of the behavior of antioxidant enzymes, the production of phytochelatins, metallothioneins, and carboxylic acids. This approach would lead to a more comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms involved in the transport and translocation of Cd in cacao plants.

**Author Contributions:** Conceptualization, A.O.-Á., S.M., E.A.S.-A., C.R.-M., X.A. and Á.M.C.-M.; methodology, A.O.-Á., S.M., E.A.S.-A., C.R.-M., X.A. and Á.M.C.-M.; software, A.O.-Á. and E.A.S.-A.; validation, A.O.-Á., E.A.S.-A. and Á.M.C.-M.; formal analysis, A.O.-Á. and E.A.S.-A.; investigation, A.O.-Á., S.M., E.A.S.-A., C.R.-M., X.A. and Á.M.C.-M.; resources, C.R.-M. and X.A.; data curation, A.O.-Á. and E.A.S.-A.; writing—original draft preparation, A.O.-Á.; writing—review and editing, A.O.-Á., S.M., E.A.S.-A., C.R.-M., X.A. and Á.M.C.-M.; supervision, Á.M.C.-M.; project administration, C.R.-M. and Á.M.C.-M.; funding acquisition, C.R.-M. and X.A. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

**Funding:** This research was funded by the European Union via the European Commission under the DeSIRA initiative as part of the Clima-LoCa project, Grant Contract FOOD/2019/407-158. Its contents are the sole responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.

**Data Availability Statement:** The data presented in this study are available on request from the corresponding author. The data are not publicly available because the plant materials we use are currently undergoing evaluation as part of a cocoa genetic improvement program.

**Acknowledgments:** Acknowledgment goes to researchers Isidro Beltrán and Eliseo Polanco from the Nataima Research Center of AGROSAVIA, who provided the materials and field personnel for the setup of plants and the development of field trials. Additionally, we would like to thank the National Germplasm Banks (SBGNAA) for supplying plant material. We extend our thanks to Camila Hernández for obtaining the cacao progenies through controlled crosses between cacao accessions from the SBGNAA.

**Conflicts of Interest:** The authors declare no conflict of interest.

## References

1. Gateau-Rey, L.; Tanner, E.V.J.; Rapidel, B.; Marelli, J.P.; Royaert, S. Climate Change Could Threaten Cocoa Production: Effects of 2015–2016 El Niño-Related Drought on Cocoa Agroforests in Bahia, Brazil. *PLoS ONE* **2018**, *13*, e0200454. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

2. Zuidema, P.A.; Leffelaar, P.A.; Gerritsma, W.; Mommer, L.; Anten, N.P.R. A Physiological Production Model for Cocoa (*Theobroma cacao*): Model Presentation, Validation and Application. *Agric. Syst.* **2005**, *84*, 195–225. [CrossRef]

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under conditions of moderate water deficit, an increase in Cd translocation from the roots to the aerial part of the plant was observed.

It is relevant to highlight that the movement of Cd from the roots to the aerial part may vary in an ungrafted plant compared to a grafting system between scion and rootstock. Therefore, a study is required to assess this translocation in grafts with these specific progenies to determine if it occurs similarly. Progeny SCA6 × PA121 exhibits promising traits as a potential rootstock due to its ability to withstand water stress and maintain stable Cd accumulation. However, further evaluation is needed regarding Cd accumulation and its translocation from the rootstock to the grafted scion under water-deficit conditions. Additionally, it is important to take into account other factors, such as the age of the plant, which may influence the amount of Cd absorbed and transported from the rootstock to the canopy.

This study initiates the discussion of important considerations for the proper selection of cacao genetic materials in regions characterized by droughts and high soil Cd concentrations. A deeper understanding of the interaction between water stress and Cd accumulation in cacao is warranted, potentially opening new avenues for enhancing the adaptation and performance of this crop under challenging conditions.

For future research aimed at assessing the interaction between water deficit and Cd accumulation in cacao, it is recommended to incorporate additional molecular and biochemical analyses. These analyses could encompass the investigation of the behavior of antioxidant enzymes, the production of phytochelatins, metallothioneins, and carboxylic acids. This approach would lead to a more comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms involved in the transport and translocation of Cd in cacao plants.

**Author Contributions:** Conceptualization, A.O.-Á., S.M., E.A.S.-A., C.R.-M., X.A. and Á.M.C.-M.; methodology, A.O.-Á., S.M., E.A.S.-A., C.R.-M., X.A. and Á.M.C.-M.; software, A.O.-Á. and E.A.S.-A.; validation, A.O.-Á., E.A.S.-A. and Á.M.C.-M.; formal analysis, A.O.-Á. and E.A.S.-A.; investigation, A.O.-Á., S.M., E.A.S.-A., C.R.-M., X.A. and Á.M.C.-M.; resources, C.R.-M. and X.A.; data curation, A.O.-Á. and E.A.S.-A.; writing—original draft preparation, A.O.-Á.; writing—review and editing, A.O.-Á., S.M., E.A.S.-A., C.R.-M., X.A. and Á.M.C.-M.; supervision, Á.M.C.-M.; project administration, C.R.-M. and Á.M.C.-M.; funding acquisition, C.R.-M. and X.A. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

**Funding:** This research was funded by the European Union via the European Commission under the DeSIRA initiative as part of the Clima-LoCa project, Grant Contract FOOD/2019/407-158. Its contents are the sole responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.

**Data Availability Statement:** The data presented in this study are available on request from the corresponding author. The data are not publicly available because the plant materials we use are currently undergoing evaluation as part of a cocoa genetic improvement program.

**Acknowledgments:** Acknowledgment goes to researchers Isidro Beltrán and Eliseo Polanco from the Nataima Research Center of AGROSAVIA, who provided the materials and field personnel for the setup of plants and the development of field trials. Additionally, we would like to thank the National Germplasm Banks (SBGNAA) for supplying plant material. We extend our thanks to Camila Hernández for obtaining the cacao progenies through controlled crosses between cacao accessions from the SBGNAA.

**Conflicts of Interest:** The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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21. Bashir, W.; Anwar, S.; Zhao, Q.; Hussain, I.; Xie, F. Interactive Effect of Drought and Cadmium Stress on Soybean Root Morphology and Gene Expression. *Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.* **2019**, *175*, 90–101. [CrossRef]

22. Liu, C.; Yu, R.; Shi, G. Effects of Drought on the Accumulation and Redistribution of Cadmium in Peanuts at Different Developmental Stages. *Arch. Agron. Soil Sci.* **2016**, *63*, 1049–1057. [CrossRef]

23. Xia, S.; Wang, X.; Su, G.; Shi, G. Effects of Drought on Cadmium Accumulation in Peanuts Grown in a Contaminated Calcareous Soil. *Environ. Sci. Pollut. Res.* **2015**, *22*, 18707–18717. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

24. Bravo, D.; Leon-Moreno, C.; Martínez, C.A.; Varón-Ramírez, V.M.; Araujo-Carrillo, G.A.; Vargas, R.; Quiroga-Mateus, R.; Zamora, A.; Rodríguez, E.A.G. The First National Survey of Cadmium in Cacao Farm Soil in Colombia. *Agronomy* **2021**, *11*, 761. [CrossRef]

25. Bunn, C.; Lundy, M.; Läderach, P.; Castro, F. Global Climate Change Impacts on Cocoa. In Proceedings of the International Symposium on Cocoa Research (ISCR), Lima, Peru, 13–17 November 2017; pp. 13–17.

26. Gil, J.P.; López-Zuleta, S.; Quiroga-Mateus, R.Y.; Benavides-Erazo, J.; Chaali, N.; Bravo, D. Cadmium Distribution in Soils, Soil Litter and Cacao Beans: A Case Study from Colombia. *Int. J. Environ. Sci. Technol.* **2022**, *19*, 2455–2476. [CrossRef]

27. Jaraba, A.B.; Buriticá, Á.J.; Vega, F.N.; Urrego, J.E.; Bautista, J.F.; Puerta, J.A.; Yepes, J.E. *Modelo Productivo Para el Cultivo de Cacao* (*Theobroma cacao* L.)—Nutrición y Fertilización; Compañía Nacional de Chocolates: Lima, Peru, 2021; ISBN 9789582485888.

28. Dos Santos, I.C.; De Almeida, A.A.F.; Anhert, D.; Da Conceição, A.S.; Pirovani, C.P.; Pires, J.L.; Valle, R.R.; Baligar, V.C. Molecular, Physiological and Biochemical Responses of *Theobroma cacao* L. Genotypes to Soil Water Deficit. *PLoS ONE* **2014**, *9*, e115746. [CrossRef]
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5. Chavez, E.; He, Z.L.; Stoffella, P.J.; Mylavarapu, R.S.; Li, Y.C.; Moyano, B.; Baligar, V.C. Concentration of Cadmium in Cacao Beans and Its Relationship with Soil Cadmium in Southern Ecuador. *Sci. Total Environ.* **2015**, *533*, 205–214. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

6. Florida Rofner, N. Revision Sobre Limites Máximos de Cadmio En Cacao (*Theobroma cacao* L.). *Granja* **2021**, *34*, 113–126. [CrossRef]

7. Meter, A.; Atkinson, R.J.; Laliberte, B. *Cadmium in Cacao from Latin America and the Caribbean—A Review of Research and Potential Mitigation Solutions*; Bioversity International: Rome, Italy, 2019; ISBN 2013206534.

8. Pereira de Araújo, R.; Furtado De Almeida, A.-A.; Pereira, L.S.; Mangabeira, P.A.O.; Souza, J.O.; Pirovani, C.P.; Ahnert, D.; Baligar, V.C. Photosynthetic, Antioxidative, Molecular and Ultrastructural Responses of Young Cacao Plants to Cd Toxicity in the Soil. *Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.* **2017**, *144*, 148–157. [CrossRef]

9. Castro, A.V.; De Almeida, A.-A.F.; Pirovani, C.P.; Reis, G.S.M.; Almeida, N.M.; Mangabeira, P.A.O. Morphological, Biochemical, Molecular and Ultrastructural Changes Induced by Cd Toxicity in Seedlings of *Theobroma cacao* L. *Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.* **2015**, *115*, 174–186. [CrossRef]

10. Lewis, C.; Lennon, A.M.; Eudoxie, G.; Umaharan, P.; Campus, A. Genetic Variation in Bioaccumulation and Partitioning of Cadmium in *Theobroma cacao* L. *Sci. Total Environ.* **2018**, *640–641*, 696–703. [CrossRef]

11. De Almeida, N.M.; Furtado De Almeida, A.-A.; De Almeida, N.S.; Do Nascimento, L.J.; De Carvalho Neto, C.H.; Pirovani, C.P.; Ahnert, D.; Baligar, V.C. Scion-Rootstock Interaction and Tolerance to Cadmium Toxicity in Juvenile *Theobroma cacao* Plants. *Sci. Hortic.* **2022**, *300*, 111086. [CrossRef]

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14. Barraza, F.; Moore, R.E.T.; Rehkämper, M.; Schreck, E.; Lefeuvre, G.; Kreissig, K.; Coles, B.J.; Maurice, L. Cadmium Isotope Fractionation in the Soil-Cacao Systems of Ecuador: A Pilot Field Study. *RSC Adv.* **2019**, *9*, 34011–34022. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

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16. Bauddh, K.; Singh, R.P. Growth, Tolerance Efficiency and Phytoremediation Potential of *Ricinus communis* (L.) and *Brassica juncea* (L.) in Salinity and Drought Affected Cadmium Contaminated Soil. *Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.* **2012**, *85*, 13–22. [CrossRef]

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18. Ünyayar, S.; Keleş, Y.; Çekiç, F.Ö. The Antioxidative Response of Two Tomato Species with Different Drought Tolerances as a Result of Drought and Cadmium Stress Combinations. *Plant Soil Environ.* **2005**, *51*, 57–64. [CrossRef]

19. Abbas, T.; Rizwan, M.; Ali, S.; Adrees, M.; Mahmood, A.; Zia-ur-Rehman, M.; Ibrahim, M.; Arshad, M.; Qayyum, M.F. Biochar Application Increased the Growth and Yield and Reduced Cadmium in Drought Stressed Wheat Grown in an Aged Contaminated Soil. *Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.* **2018**, *148*, 825–833. [CrossRef]

20. Adrees, M.; Khan, Z.S.; Ali, S.; Hafeez, M.; Khalid, S.; ur Rehman, M.Z.; Hussain, A.; Hussain, K.; Shahid Chatha, S.A.; Rizwan, M. Simultaneous Mitigation of Cadmium and Drought Stress in Wheat by Soil Application of Iron Nanoparticles. *Chemosphere* **2020**, *238*, 124681. [CrossRef]

21. Bashir, W.; Anwar, S.; Zhao, Q.; Hussain, I.; Xie, F. Interactive Effect of Drought and Cadmium Stress on Soybean Root Morphology and Gene Expression. *Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.* **2019**, *175*, 90–101. [CrossRef]

22. Liu, C.; Yu, R.; Shi, G. Effects of Drought on the Accumulation and Redistribution of Cadmium in Peanuts at Different Developmental Stages. *Arch. Agron. Soil Sci.* **2016**, *63*, 1049–1057. [CrossRef]

23. Xia, S.; Wang, X.; Su, G.; Shi, G. Effects of Drought on Cadmium Accumulation in Peanuts Grown in a Contaminated Calcareous Soil. *Environ. Sci. Pollut. Res.* **2015**, *22*, 18707–18717. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

24. Bravo, D.; Leon-Moreno, C.; Martínez, C.A.; Varón-Ramírez, V.M.; Araujo-Carrillo, G.A.; Vargas, R.; Quiroga-Mateus, R.; Zamora, A.; Rodríguez, E.A.G. The First National Survey of Cadmium in Cacao Farm Soil in Colombia. *Agronomy* **2021**, *11*, 761. [CrossRef]

25. Bunn, C.; Lundy, M.; Läderach, P.; Castro, F. Global Climate Change Impacts on Cocoa. In Proceedings of the International Symposium on Cocoa Research (ISCR), Lima, Peru, 13–17 November 2017; pp. 13–17.

26. Gil, J.P.; López-Zuleta, S.; Quiroga-Mateus, R.Y.; Benavides-Erazo, J.; Chaali, N.; Bravo, D. Cadmium Distribution in Soils, Soil Litter and Cacao Beans: A Case Study from Colombia. *Int. J. Environ. Sci. Technol.* **2022**, *19*, 2455–2476. [CrossRef]

27. Jaraba, A.B.; Buriticá, Á.J.; Vega, F.N.; Urrego, J.E.; Bautista, J.F.; Puerta, J.A.; Yepes, J.E. *Modelo Productivo Para el Cultivo de Cacao* (*Theobroma cacao* L.)—Nutrición y Fertilización; Compañía Nacional de Chocolates: Lima, Peru, 2021; ISBN 9789582485888.

28. Dos Santos, I.C.; De Almeida, A.A.F.; Anhert, D.; Da Conceição, A.S.; Pirovani, C.P.; Pires, J.L.; Valle, R.R.; Baligar, V.C. Molecular, Physiological and Biochemical Responses of *Theobroma cacao* L. Genotypes to Soil Water Deficit. *PLoS ONE* **2014**, *9*, e115746. [CrossRef]
29. Jaraba, A.B.; Buriticá, Á.J.; Vega, F.N.; Urrego, J.E.; Bautista, J.F.; Puerta, J.A.; Yepes, J.E. *Modelo Productivo Para El Cultivo de Cacao* (*Theobroma cacao* L.)—*Origen, Botánica y Generalidades*; Campaña Nacional de Chocolates—CNCH: Lima, Peru, 2021; ISBN 978958341401.

30. De Almeida, J.; Tezara, W.; Herrera, A. Physiological Responses to Drought and Experimental Water Deficit and Waterlogging of Four Clones of Cacao (*Theobroma cacao* L.) Selected for Cultivation in Venezuela. *Agric. Water Manag.* **2016**, *171*, 80–88. [CrossRef]

31. Rada, F.; Jaimez, R.E.; García-Nuñez, C.; Azócar, A.; Ramírez, M.E. Relaciones Hídricas e Intercambio de Gases En *Theobroma cacao* Var. Guasare Bajo Períodos de Deficit Hídrico. *Rev. Fac. Agron.* **2005**, *22*, 120.

32. Osorio Zambrano, M.A.; Castillo, D.A.; Rodríguez Pérez, L.; Terán, W. Cacao (*Theobroma cacao* L.) Response to Water Stress: Physiological Characterization and Antioxidant Gene Expression Profiling in Commercial Clones. *Front. Plant Sci.* **2021**, *12*, 700855. [CrossRef]

33. Dutta, A.; Patra, A.; Singh Jatav, H.; Singh Jatav, S.; Kumar Singh, S.; Sathyanarayana, E.; Sudhanshu, V.; Singh, P. *Toxicity of Cadmium in Soil-Plant-Human Continuum and Its Bioremediation Techniques*; IntechOpen: Rijeka, Croatia, 2020; ISBN 0000957720.

34. Lanza, J.G.; Churión, P.C.; Liendo, N.J.; López, V.H. Evaluación Del Contenido de Metales Pesados En Cacao (*Theobroma cacao* L.) de Sabta Bárbara Del Zulia, Venezuela. *Saber Univ. Oriente* **2016**, *28*, 106–115.

35. Mattina, M.J.I.; Lannucci-Berger, W.; Musante, C.; White, J.C. Concurrent Plant Uptake of Heavy Metals and Persistent Organic Pollutants from Soil. *Environ. Pollut.* **2003**, *124*, 375–378. [CrossRef]

36. Lahive, F.; Hadley, P.; Daymond, A.J. The Physiological Responses of Cacao to the Environment and the Implications for Climate Change Resilience: A Review. *Agron. Sustain. Dev.* **2019**, *39*, 5. [CrossRef]

37. Deng, X.; Joly, R.J.; Hahn, D.T. The Influence of Plant Water Deficit on Photosynthesis and Translocation of 14C-labeled Assimilates in Cacao Seedlings. *Physiol. Plant.* **1990**, *78*, 623–627. [CrossRef]

38. Medina, V.; Laliberte, B. *A Review of Research on the Effects of Drought and Temperature Stress and Increased CO₂ on Theobroma cacao* L., and the Role of Genetic Diversity to Address Climate Change; Bioversity International: Turrialba, Costa Rica, 2017; ISBN 978929550745.

39. Balasimha, D.; Daniel, E.V.; Bhat, P.G. Influence of Environmental Factors on Photosynthesis in Cocoa Trees. *Agric. For. Meteorol.* **1991**, *55*, 15–21. [CrossRef]

40. Carr, M.K.V.; Lockwoods, G. The Water Relations and Irrigation Requeriments of Cocoa (*Theobroma cacao* L.): A Review. *Exp. Agric.* **2011**, *47*, 635–676. [CrossRef]

41. Araque, O.; Jaimez, R.E.; Tezara, W.; Coronel, I.; Urich, R.; Espinoza, W. Comparative Photosynthesis, Water Relations, Growth and Survival Rates in Juvenile Criollo Cacao Cultivars (*Theobroma cacao*) during Dry and Wet Seasons. *Exp. Agric.* **2012**, *48*, 513–522. [CrossRef]

42. Jiménez, S.; Dridi, J.; Gutiérrez, D.; Moret, D.; Irigoyen, J.J.; Moreno, M.A.; Gogorcena, Y. Physiological, Biochemical and Molecular Responses in Four Prunus Rootstocks Submitted to Drought Stress. *Tree Physiol.* **2013**, *33*, 1061–1075. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

43. Martínez-Ferri, E.; Moreno-Ortega, G.; Van Den Berg, N.; Pliego, C. Mild Water Stress-Induced Priming Enhance Tolerance to Rosellinia Necatrix in Susceptible Avocado Rootstocks. *BMC Plant Biol.* **2019**, *19*, 458. [CrossRef]

44. Ramalho, J.C.; Rodrigues, A.P.; Lidon, F.C.; Marques, L.M.C.; Leitão, A.E.; Fortunato, A.S.; Pais, I.P.; Silva, M.J.; Scotti-Campos, P.; Lopes, A.; et al. Stress Cross-Response of the Antioxidative System Promoted by Superimposed Drought and Cold Conditions in *Coffea* spp. *PLoS ONE* **2018**, *13*, e0198694. [CrossRef]

45. Kubier, A.; Wilkin, R.T.; Pichler, T. Cadmium in soils and groundwater: A review. *Appl. Geochem.* **2019**, *108*, 104388. [CrossRef]

46. Zulfiqar, U.; Jiang, W.; Xiukang, W.; Hussain, S.; Ahmad, M.; Maqsood, M.F.; Ali, N.; Ishfaq, M.; Kaleem, M.; Haider, F.U.; et al. Cadmium Phytotoxicity, Tolerance, and Advanced Remediation Approaches in Agricultural Soils: A Comprehensive Review. *Front. Plant Sci.* **2022**, *13*, 773815. [CrossRef]

47. Akbar, K.F.; Hale, W.H.G.; Headley, A.D.; Athar, M. Heavy Metal Contamination of Roadside Soils of Northern England. *Soil Water Res.* **2006**, *1*, 158–163. [CrossRef]

48. Irfan, M.; Hayat, S.; Ahmad, A.; Alyemeni, M.N. Soil Cadmium Enrichment: Allocation and Plant Physiological Manifestations. *Saudi J. Biol. Sci.* **2013**, *20*, 1–10. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

49. Argüello, D.; Chavez, E.; Lauryssen, F.; Vanderschueren, R.; Smolders, E.; Montalvo, D. Soil Properties and Agronomic Factors Affecting Cadmium Concentrations in Cacao Beans: A Nationwide Survey in Ecuador. *Sci. Total Environ.* **2019**, *649*, 120–127. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

50. Oliveira, R.B.M.; Furtado De Almeida, A.-A.; De Almeida Santos, N.; Pirovani, C.P. Tolerance Strategies and Factors That Influence the Cadmium Uptake by Cacao Tree. *Sci. Hortic.* **2022**, *293*, 110733. [CrossRef]

51. Wade, J.; Ac-Pangan, M.; Favoretto, V.R.; Taylor, A.J.; Engeseth, N.; Margenot, A.J. Drivers of Cadmium Accumulation in *Theobroma cacao* L. Beans: A Quantitative Synthesis of Soil-Plant Relationships across the Cacao Belt. *PLoS ONE* **2022**, *17*, e0261989. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

52. Gupta, A.; Rico-Medina, A.; Caño-Delgado, A.I. The Physiology of Plant Responses to Drought. *Science* **2020**, *368*, 266–269. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

53. Rouphael, Y.; Cardarelli, M.; Schwarz, D.; Franken, P.; Colla, G. Effects of Drought on Nutrient Uptake and Assimilation in Vegetable Crops. In *Plant Responses to Drought Stress*; Springer: Berlin/Heidelberg, Germany, 2012; pp. 171–195. ISBN 9783642326530.
29. Jaraba, A.B.; Buriticá, Á.J.; Vega, F.N.; Urrego, J.E.; Bautista, J.F.; Puerta, J.A.; Yepes, J.E. *Modelo Productivo Para El Cultivo de Cacao* (*Theobroma cacao* L.)—*Origen, Botánica y Generalidades*; Campaña Nacional de Chocolates—CNCH: Lima, Peru, 2021; ISBN 978958341401.

30. De Almeida, J.; Tezara, W.; Herrera, A. Physiological Responses to Drought and Experimental Water Deficit and Waterlogging of Four Clones of Cacao (*Theobroma cacao* L.) Selected for Cultivation in Venezuela. *Agric. Water Manag.* **2016**, *171*, 80–88. [CrossRef]

31. Rada, F.; Jaimez, R.E.; García-Nuñez, C.; Azócar, A.; Ramírez, M.E. Relaciones Hídricas e Intercambio de Gases En *Theobroma cacao* Var. Guasare Bajo Períodos de Deficit Hídrico. *Rev. Fac. Agron.* **2005**, *22*, 120.

32. Osorio Zambrano, M.A.; Castillo, D.A.; Rodríguez Pérez, L.; Terán, W. Cacao (*Theobroma cacao* L.) Response to Water Stress: Physiological Characterization and Antioxidant Gene Expression Profiling in Commercial Clones. *Front. Plant Sci.* **2021**, *12*, 700855. [CrossRef]

33. Dutta, A.; Patra, A.; Singh Jatav, H.; Singh Jatav, S.; Kumar Singh, S.; Sathyanarayana, E.; Sudhanshu, V.; Singh, P. *Toxicity of Cadmium in Soil-Plant-Human Continuum and Its Bioremediation Techniques*; IntechOpen: Rijeka, Croatia, 2020; ISBN 0000957720.

34. Lanza, J.G.; Churión, P.C.; Liendo, N.J.; López, V.H. Evaluación Del Contenido de Metales Pesados En Cacao (*Theobroma cacao* L.) de Sabta Bárbara Del Zulia, Venezuela. *Saber Univ. Oriente* **2016**, *28*, 106–115.

35. Mattina, M.J.I.; Lannucci-Berger, W.; Musante, C.; White, J.C. Concurrent Plant Uptake of Heavy Metals and Persistent Organic Pollutants from Soil. *Environ. Pollut.* **2003**, *124*, 375–378. [CrossRef]

36. Lahive, F.; Hadley, P.; Daymond, A.J. The Physiological Responses of Cacao to the Environment and the Implications for Climate Change Resilience: A Review. *Agron. Sustain. Dev.* **2019**, *39*, 5. [CrossRef]

37. Deng, X.; Joly, R.J.; Hahn, D.T. The Influence of Plant Water Deficit on Photosynthesis and Translocation of 14C-labeled Assimilates in Cacao Seedlings. *Physiol. Plant.* **1990**, *78*, 623–627. [CrossRef]

38. Medina, V.; Laliberte, B. *A Review of Research on the Effects of Drought and Temperature Stress and Increased CO₂ on Theobroma cacao L., and the Role of Genetic Diversity to Address Climate Change*; Bioversity International: Turrialba, Costa Rica, 2017; ISBN 978929550745.

39. Balasimha, D.; Daniel, E.V.; Bhat, P.G. Influence of Environmental Factors on Photosynthesis in Cocoa Trees. *Agric. For. Meteorol.* **1991**, *55*, 15–21. [CrossRef]

40. Carr, M.K.V.; Lockwoods, G. The Water Relations and Irrigation Requeriments of Cocoa (*Theobroma cacao* L.): A Review. *Exp. Agric.* **2011**, *47*, 635–676. [CrossRef]

41. Araque, O.; Jaimez, R.E.; Tezara, W.; Coronel, I.; Urich, R.; Espinoza, W. Comparative Photosynthesis, Water Relations, Growth and Survival Rates in Juvenile Criollo Cacao Cultivars (*Theobroma cacao*) during Dry and Wet Seasons. *Exp. Agric.* **2012**, *48*, 513–522. [CrossRef]

42. Jiménez, S.; Dridi, J.; Gutiérrez, D.; Moret, D.; Irigoyen, J.J.; Moreno, M.A.; Gogorcena, Y. Physiological, Biochemical and Molecular Responses in Four Prunus Rootstocks Submitted to Drought Stress. *Tree Physiol.* **2013**, *33*, 1061–1075. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

43. Martínez-Ferri, E.; Moreno-Ortega, G.; Van Den Berg, N.; Pliego, C. Mild Water Stress-Induced Priming Enhance Tolerance to Rosellinia Necatrix in Susceptible Avocado Rootstocks. *BMC Plant Biol.* **2019**, *19*, 458. [CrossRef]

44. Ramalho, J.C.; Rodrigues, A.P.; Lidon, F.C.; Marques, L.M.C.; Leitão, A.E.; Fortunato, A.S.; Pais, I.P.; Silva, M.J.; Scotti-Campos, P.; Lopes, A.; et al. Stress Cross-Response of the Antioxidative System Promoted by Superimposed Drought and Cold Conditions in *Coffea* spp. *PLoS ONE* **2018**, *13*, e0198694. [CrossRef]

45. Kubier, A.; Wilkin, R.T.; Pichler, T. Cadmium in soils and groundwater: A review. *Appl. Geochem.* **2019**, *108*, 104388. [CrossRef]

46. Zulfiqar, U.; Jiang, W.; Xiukang, W.; Hussain, S.; Ahmad, M.; Maqsood, M.F.; Ali, N.; Ishfaq, M.; Kaleem, M.; Haider, F.U.; et al. Cadmium Phytotoxicity, Tolerance, and Advanced Remediation Approaches in Agricultural Soils: A Comprehensive Review. *Front. Plant Sci.* **2022**, *13*, 773815. [CrossRef]

47. Akbar, K.F.; Hale, W.H.G.; Headley, A.D.; Athar, M. Heavy Metal Contamination of Roadside Soils of Northern England. *Soil Water Res.* **2006**, *1*, 158–163. [CrossRef]

48. Irfan, M.; Hayat, S.; Ahmad, A.; Alyemeni, M.N. Soil Cadmium Enrichment: Allocation and Plant Physiological Manifestations. *Saudi J. Biol. Sci.* **2013**, *20*, 1–10. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

49. Argüello, D.; Chavez, E.; Lauryssen, F.; Vanderschueren, R.; Smolders, E.; Montalvo, D. Soil Properties and Agronomic Factors Affecting Cadmium Concentrations in Cacao Beans: A Nationwide Survey in Ecuador. *Sci. Total Environ.* **2019**, *649*, 120–127. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

50. Oliveira, R.B.M.; Furtado De Almeida, A.-A.; De Almeida Santos, N.; Pirovani, C.P. Tolerance Strategies and Factors That Influence the Cadmium Uptake by Cacao Tree. *Sci. Hortic.* **2022**, *293*, 110733. [CrossRef]

51. Wade, J.; Ac-Pangan, M.; Favoretto, V.R.; Taylor, A.J.; Engeseth, N.; Margenot, A.J. Drivers of Cadmium Accumulation in *Theobroma cacao* L. Beans: A Quantitative Synthesis of Soil-Plant Relationships across the Cacao Belt. *PLoS ONE* **2022**, *17*, e0261989. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

52. Gupta, A.; Rico-Medina, A.; Caño-Delgado, A.I. The Physiology of Plant Responses to Drought. *Science* **2020**, *368*, 266–269. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

53. Rouphael, Y.; Cardarelli, M.; Schwarz, D.; Franken, P.; Colla, G. Effects of Drought on Nutrient Uptake and Assimilation in Vegetable Crops. In *Plant Responses to Drought Stress*; Springer: Berlin/Heidelberg, Germany, 2012; pp. 171–195. ISBN 9783642326530.
54. He, S.; He, Z.; Yang, X.; Stoffella, P.J.; Baligar, V.C. Soil Biogeochemistry, Plant Physiology, and Phytoremediation of Cadmium-Contaminated Soils. *Adv. Agron.* **2015**, *134*, 135–225. [CrossRef]

55. Arao, T.; Ishikawa, S. Genotypic Differences in Cadmium Concentration and Distribution of Soybean and Rice. *Jpn. Agric. Res. Q. Jpn. Int. Res. Cent. Agric. Sci.* **2006**, *40*, 21–30. [CrossRef]

56. Grant, C.A.; Clarke, J.M.; Duguid, S.; Chaney, R.L. Selection and Breeding of Plant Cultivars to Minimize Cadmium Accumulation. *Sci. Total Environ.* **2008**, *390*, 301–310. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

57. Haider, F.U.; Liqun, C.; Coulter, J.A.; Cheema, S.A.; Wu, J.; Zhang, R.; Wenjun, M.; Farooq, M. Cadmium Toxicity in Plants: Impacts and Remediation Strategies. *Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.* **2021**, *211*, 111887. [CrossRef]

58. Liu, X.; Peng, K.; Wang, A.; Lian, C.; Shen, Z. Cadmium Accumulation and Distribution in Populations of Phytolacca Americana L. and the Role of Transpiration. *Chemosphere* **2010**, *78*, 1136–1141. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

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60. Song, Y.; Jin, L.; Wang, X. Cadmium Absorption and Transportation Pathways in Plants. *Int. J. Phytoremediation* **2017**, *19*, 133–141. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

61. Tran, T.A.; Popova, L.P. Functions and Toxicity of Cadmium in Plants: Recent Advances and Future Prospects. *Turk. J. Bot.* **2013**, *37*, 1–13. [CrossRef]

62. Nirola, R.; Megharaj, M.; Palanisami, T.; Aryal, R.; Venkateswarlu, K. Ravi Naidu Evaluation of Metal Uptake Factors of Native Trees Colonizing an Abandoned Copper Mine—A Quest for Phytostabilization. *J. Sustain. Min.* **2015**, *14*, 115–123. [CrossRef]

63. Salt, D.E.; Blaylock, M.; Kumar, N.P.B.A.; Dushenkov, V.; Ensley, B.D.; Chet, I.; Raskin, I. Phytoremediation: A Novel Strategy for the Removal of Toxic Metals from the Environment Using Plants. *Nat. Biotechnol.* **1995**, *13*, 468–474. [CrossRef]

64. Barraza, F.; Schreck, E.; Ev ^ Eque, T.L.; Uzu, G.; Opez, F.L.; Ruales, J.; Prunier, J.; Marquet, A.; Maurice, L. Cadmium Bioaccumulation and Gastric Bioaccessibility in Cacao: A Field Study in Areas Impacted by Oil Activities in Ecuador. *Environ. Pollut.* **2017**, *229*, 950–963. [CrossRef]

65. Lettens, S.; Vandecasteele, B.; De Vos, B.; Vansteenkiste, D.; Verschelde, P. Intra- and Inter-Annual Variation of Cd, Zn, Mn and Cu in Foliage of Poplars on Contaminated Soil. *Sci. Total Environ.* **2011**, *409*, 2306–2316. [CrossRef]

66. Pasricha, S.; Mathur, V.; Garg, A.; Lenka, S.; Verma, K.; Agarwal, S. Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Heavy Metal Uptake, Translocation and Tolerance in Hyperaccumulators-an Analysis Heavy Metal Tolerance in Hyperaccumulators. *Environ. Chall.* **2021**, *4*, 100197. [CrossRef]

67. Song, C.; Shen, W.; Du, L.; Wen, J.; Lin, J.; Li, R. Development and Chemical Characterization of Casparian Strips in the Roots of Chinese Fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata). *Trees—Struct. Funct.* **2019**, *33*, 827–836. [CrossRef]

68. Mingorance, M.D.; Valdés, B.; Oliva, S.R. Strategies of Heavy Metal Uptake by Plants Growing under Industrial Emissions. *Environ. Int.* **2007**, *33*, 514–520. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

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70. Clemens, S.; Aarts, M.G.M.; Thomine, S.; Verbruggen, N. Plant Science: The Key to Preventing Slow Cadmium Poisoning. *Trends Plant Sci.* **2013**, *18*, 92–99. [CrossRef]

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73. Engbersen, N.; Gramlich, A.; Lopez, M.; Schwarz, G.; Hattendorf, B.; Gutierrez, O.; Schulin, R. Cadmium Accumulation and Allocation in Different Cacao Cultivars. *Sci. Total Environ.* **2019**, *678*, 660–670. [CrossRef]

74. Moore, R.E.T.; Ullah, I.; de Oliveira, V.H.; Hammond, S.J.; Strekopytov, S.; Tibbett, M.; Dunwell, J.M.; Rehkämper, M. Cadmium Isotope Fractionation Reveals Genetic Variation in Cd Uptake and Translocation by *Theobroma cacao* and Role of Natural Resistance-Associated Macrophage Protein 5 and Heavy Metal ATPase-Family Transporters. *Hortic. Res.* **2020**, *7*, 71. [CrossRef]

75. Hu, P.J.; Qiu, R.L.; Senthilkumar, P.; Jiang, D.; Chen, Z.W.; Tang, Y.T.; Liu, F.J. Tolerance, Accumulation and Distribution of Zinc and Cadmium in Hyperaccumulator Potentilla Griffithii. *Environ. Exp. Bot.* **2009**, *66*, 317–325. [CrossRef]

76. Akhter, M.F.; Omelon, C.R.; Gordon, R.A.; Moser, D.; Macfie, S.M. Localization and Chemical Speciation of Cadmium in the Roots of Barley and Lettuce. *Environ. Exp. Bot.* **2014**, *100*, 10–19. [CrossRef]

77. Mori, S.; Uraguchi, S.; Ishikawa, S.; Arao, T. Xylem Loading Process Is a Critical Factor in Determining Cd Accumulation in the Shoots of *Solanum melongena* and *Solanum torvum*. *Environ. Exp. Bot.* **2009**, *67*, 127–132. [CrossRef]

78. de Silva, N.D.G.; Cholewa, E.; Ryser, P. Effects of Combined Drought and Heavy Metal Stresses on Xylem Structure and Hydraulic Conductivity in Red Maple (*Acer rubrum* L.). *J. Exp. Bot.* **2012**, *63*, 5957–5966. [CrossRef] [PubMed]
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56. Grant, C.A.; Clarke, J.M.; Duguid, S.; Chaney, R.L. Selection and Breeding of Plant Cultivars to Minimize Cadmium Accumulation. *Sci. Total Environ.* **2008**, *390*, 301–310. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

57. Haider, F.U.; Liqun, C.; Coulter, J.A.; Cheema, S.A.; Wu, J.; Zhang, R.; Wenjun, M.; Farooq, M. Cadmium Toxicity in Plants: Impacts and Remediation Strategies. *Ecotoxicol. Environ. Saf.* **2021**, *211*, 111887. [CrossRef]

58. Liu, X.; Peng, K.; Wang, A.; Lian, C.; Shen, Z. Cadmium Accumulation and Distribution in Populations of Phytolacca Americana L. and the Role of Transpiration. *Chemosphere* **2010**, *78*, 1136–1141. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

59. Su, Y.; Wang, X.; Liu, C.; Shi, G. Variation in Cadmium Accumulation and Translocation among Peanut Cultivars as Affected by Iron Deficiency. *Plant Soil* **2013**, *363*, 201–213. [CrossRef]

60. Song, Y.; Jin, L.; Wang, X. Cadmium Absorption and Transportation Pathways in Plants. *Int. J. Phytoremediation* **2017**, *19*, 133–141. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

61. Tran, T.A.; Popova, L.P. Functions and Toxicity of Cadmium in Plants: Recent Advances and Future Prospects. *Turk. J. Bot.* **2013**, *37*, 1–13. [CrossRef]

62. Nirola, R.; Megharaj, M.; Palanisami, T.; Aryal, R.; Venkateswarlu, K. Ravi Naidu Evaluation of Metal Uptake Factors of Native Trees Colonizing an Abandoned Copper Mine—A Quest for Phytostabilization. *J. Sustain. Min.* **2015**, *14*, 115–123. [CrossRef]

63. Salt, D.E.; Blaylock, M.; Kumar, N.P.B.A.; Dushenkov, V.; Ensley, B.D.; Chet, I.; Raskin, I. Phytoremediation: A Novel Strategy for the Removal of Toxic Metals from the Environment Using Plants. *Nat. Biotechnol.* **1995**, *13*, 468–474. [CrossRef]

64. Barraza, F.; Schreck, E.; Ev ^ Eque, T.L.; Uzu, G.; Opez, F.L.; Ruales, J.; Prunier, J.; Marquet, A.; Maurice, L. Cadmium Bioaccumulation and Gastric Bioaccessibility in Cacao: A Field Study in Areas Impacted by Oil Activities in Ecuador. *Environ. Pollut.* **2017**, *229*, 950–963. [CrossRef]

65. Lettens, S.; Vandecasteele, B.; De Vos, B.; Vansteenkiste, D.; Verschelde, P. Intra- and Inter-Annual Variation of Cd, Zn, Mn and Cu in Foliage of Poplars on Contaminated Soil. *Sci. Total Environ.* **2011**, *409*, 2306–2316. [CrossRef]

66. Pasricha, S.; Mathur, V.; Garg, A.; Lenka, S.; Verma, K.; Agarwal, S. Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Heavy Metal Uptake, Translocation and Tolerance in Hyperaccumulators-an Analysis Heavy Metal Tolerance in Hyperaccumulators. *Environ. Chall.* **2021**, *4*, 100197. [CrossRef]

67. Song, C.; Shen, W.; Du, L.; Wen, J.; Lin, J.; Li, R. Development and Chemical Characterization of Casparian Strips in the Roots of Chinese Fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata). *Trees—Struct. Funct.* **2019**, *33*, 827–836. [CrossRef]

68. Mingorance, M.D.; Valdés, B.; Oliva, S.R. Strategies of Heavy Metal Uptake by Plants Growing under Industrial Emissions. *Environ. Int.* **2007**, *33*, 514–520. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

69. Verbruggen, N.; Hermans, C.; Schat, H. Mechanisms to Cope with Arsenic or Cadmium Excess in Plants. *Curr. Opin. Plant Biol.* **2009**, *12*, 364–372. [CrossRef] [PubMed]

70. Clemens, S.; Aarts, M.G.M.; Thomine, S.; Verbruggen, N. Plant Science: The Key to Preventing Slow Cadmium Poisoning. *Trends Plant Sci.* **2013**, *18*, 92–99. [CrossRef]

71. Lux, A.; Martinka, M.; Vaculík, M.; White, P.J. Root Responses to Cadmium in the Rhizosphere: A Review. *J. Exp. Bot.* **2011**, *62*, 21–37. [CrossRef]

72. Redjala, T.; Sterckeman, T.; Morel, J.L. Cadmium Uptake by Roots: Contribution of Apoplast and of High- and Low-Affinity Membrane Transport Systems. *Environ. Exp. Bot.* **2009**, *67*, 235–242. [CrossRef]

73. Engbersen, N.; Gramlich, A.; Lopez, M.; Schwarz, G.; Hattendorf, B.; Gutierrez, O.; Schulin, R. Cadmium Accumulation and Allocation in Different Cacao Cultivars. *Sci. Total Environ.* **2019**, *678*, 660–670. [CrossRef]

74. Moore, R.E.T.; Ullah, I.; de Oliveira, V.H.; Hammond, S.J.; Strekopytov, S.; Tibbett, M.; Dunwell, J.M.; Rehkämper, M. Cadmium Isotope Fractionation Reveals Genetic Variation in Cd Uptake and Translocation by *Theobroma cacao* and Role of Natural Resistance-Associated Macrophage Protein 5 and Heavy Metal ATPase-Family Transporters. *Hortic. Res.* **2020**, *7*, 71. [CrossRef]

75. Hu, P.J.; Qiu, R.L.; Senthilkumar, P.; Jiang, D.; Chen, Z.W.; Tang, Y.T.; Liu, F.J. Tolerance, Accumulation and Distribution of Zinc and Cadmium in Hyperaccumulator Potentilla Griffithii. *Environ. Exp. Bot.* **2009**, *66*, 317–325. [CrossRef]

76. Akhter, M.F.; Omelon, C.R.; Gordon, R.A.; Moser, D.; Macfie, S.M. Localization and Chemical Speciation of Cadmium in the Roots of Barley and Lettuce. *Environ. Exp. Bot.* **2014**, *100*, 10–19. [CrossRef]

77. Mori, S.; Uraguchi, S.; Ishikawa, S.; Arao, T. Xylem Loading Process Is a Critical Factor in Determining Cd Accumulation in the Shoots of *Solanum melongena* and *Solanum torvum*. *Environ. Exp. Bot.* **2009**, *67*, 127–132. [CrossRef]

78. de Silva, N.D.G.; Cholewa, E.; Ryser, P. Effects of Combined Drought and Heavy Metal Stresses on Xylem Structure and Hydraulic Conductivity in Red Maple (*Acer rubrum* L.). *J. Exp. Bot.* **2012**, *63*, 5957–5966. [CrossRef] [PubMed]