Metabolomic and Microbiome Responses to Drought Stress in Drought-Tolerant and Drought-Sensitive Bermudagrass

This project investigates how drought stress and plant genotype influence root metabolite production, exudation, and rhizosphere microbial community structure in bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon). Shotgun metagenomic sequencing was performed on rhizosphere soil samples from two cultivars: drought-tolerant TifTuf and drought-susceptible Tifway, under well-watered and drought conditions. The study aims to identify genotype-specific shifts in microbial composition and function in response to changes in root exudate chemistry. Findings provide insight into plant-microbe interactions and functional adaptation strategies that contribute to drought resilience in turfgrass systems.