Morphological and Physiological Responses of Seashore Paspalum and Bermudagrass to Waterlogging Stress

Abstract

Turfgrasses have varying tolerance to waterlogging conditions. The objective of this study was to identify important root traits and physiological responses to waterlogging stress in seashore paspalum (Paspalum vaginatum) and bermudagrass (Cynodon sp.). After being exposed to waterlogging conditions for 28 days, turf quality, leaf photosynthesis, transpiration rate, stomatal conductance (gS), and root fresh weight were significantly decreased in bermudagrass, and root lipid peroxidation was significantly increased. However, seashore paspalum was found to be more tolerant to waterlogging conditions and changes in turf quality, photosynthesis, or lipid peroxidation were not seen. The waterlogging treatments increased specific root length (SRL), surface area, and volume and decreased root respiration and diameter to a greater extent in seashore paspalum compared with bermudagrass. Under waterlogging conditions, root aerenchyma formation was found in both seashore paspalum and bermudagrass, but to a greater extent in seashore paspalum. Both grasses exhibited significant increases in root water-soluble carbohydrate (WSC) but to a lesser extent in seashore paspalum than in bermudagrass. Shoot WSC remained unchanged in seashore paspalum but was significantly increased in bermudagrass. These results indicate greater root morphological changes such as root volume, SRL, and root porosity, as well as lower root respiration may be important contributors to waterlogging tolerance for seashore paspalum.