Soluble sugar accumulation and differential gene-expression linked to waterlogging tolerance in turmeric ( <i>Curcuma longa</i> )

Climate change has increased the frequency and severity of floods, threatening crop productivity. This study investigated the genetic and physiological responses of turmeric (Curcuma longa) to soil waterlogging. After 12 days of flooding, turmeric plants showed a significant increase in soluble sugar content, while no significant changes were observed in total chlorophyll content or catalase activity. Gene expression analysis revealed significant upregulation of alcohol dehydrogenase 1-like (ADH1) and aquaporin TIP1-1-like (TIP1-1), suggesting metabolic and hydraulic adjustments to hypoxia. In contrast, chloroplastic-like superoxide dismutase [Cu–Zn] (SOD) showed no significant change, and ATP synthase CF1 beta subunit, chloroplast (ATPB), was significantly downregulated, indicating potential impairment of energy metabolism. Together, these findings provide insights into the molecular and physiological mechanisms underlying turmeric's sensitivity to flooding and may inform future efforts to develop flood-tolerant varieties.