The present study evaluated the ecophysiological performance of species Zea mays (maize), Sorghum bicolor (sorghum) and Brachiaria decumbens (Brachiaria) under water deficit conditions in a greenhouse. The leaf water potential, gas exchange, chlorophyll a fluorescence and biochemical variables of photosynthetic metabolism were assessed at maximum stress and rehydration. At 90 days after emergence and under 21 days under suspension of irrigation the maize showed the highest reduction of leaf water potential (248%), stomatal conductance (87%) and photosynthesis (53%) when compared to well watered plants. Sorghum decreased by 212%, 42% and 26%, while the brachiaria showed lower values in 105%, 36% and 31%, respectively for the same parameters. However, two days of water supply were enough for all species recover the values showed by the respective controls. The species with the smallest decrease related to the variables evaluated was sorghum, which reduced 4 among 14 variables evaluated, while brachiaria and maize decreased 9 variables when under drought. The present study highlights that beyond economics, decision making by small farmers and technicians, about which species should be used under low availability of technology and high risk of water shortages should take into account also the ecophysiological performance.
