Scientists Unveil New Mechanism for Crop Survival in Drought Conditions

Research reveals nonstomatal control of water loss in key C4 crops, enhancing their resilience to climate stress.

Researchers found that maize, sorghum, and proso millet can control water loss without relying on stomata.
This nonstomatal mechanism allows these plants to maintain photosynthesis and growth under high temperatures and dry conditions.
The study, published in PNAS, challenges the traditional understanding that stomata alone regulate leaf water loss.
Findings suggest this mechanism evolved before the divergence of C3 and C4 photosynthetic pathways, indicating a shared evolutionary trait.
Understanding this process could improve water-use efficiency in crops, crucial for global food security and climate adaptation.