Integrated physiology and multi-omics elucidate photosynthetic adaptation and osmolyte accumulation mechanisms in buffalograss under osmotic stress

Buffalograss, a drought-tolerant model grass, was studied under PEG-induced osmotic stresses. Under stress, it maintained chlorophyll content and leaf water use efficiency while increasing leaf K+ and NO3- accumulation.Genes for chlorophyll biosynthesis, carbon fixation and ion transport were upregulated, indicating enhanced photosynthesis and ion homeostasis as key strategies.This reveals mechanisms of sustained photosynthesis, ion homeostasis and organic acid accumulation in drought adaption.