Enhancing submergence tolerance in rice: metabolic and physiological insights from Sub1 introgressed lines
摘要
Anoxic tolerance in rice is critical for survival under submergence stress, which is increasingly important in flood-prone regions. This study investigates the mechanisms of anoxic tolerance in Sub1 introgressed lines of rice. These lines exhibited significantly higher survival rates, enzyme activities namely alcohol dehydrogenase and pyruvate decarboxylase, and carbohydrate content compared to the recurrent parent Rajendra Sweta under submergence stress. The Sub1 introgressed lines showed minimal shoot elongation, reduced chlorophyll degradation and enhanced recovery post-submergence, indicative of a quiescent strategy rather than an escape mechanism. Positive correlations were observed between survival percentage, alcohol dehydrogenase, pyruvate decarboxylase activities and carbohydrate content, while negative correlations were found between survival percentage and shoot elongation rate. These results suggest that increased enzyme activities and carbohydrate reserves provide the necessary energy for maintaining vital processes during anoxic stress, thereby improving survival and recovery. The study highlights the potential of Sub1 introgressed lines for improving submergence tolerance through metabolic and physiological adaptations, thereby providing a sustainable rice cultivation method in flood-affected regions.