Water flux patterns and aquaporin dynamics: linking stomatal demand to root hydraulics in pearl millet hybrids

expression, facilitating radial flow to match their high transpiration demand. The findings demonstrate that breeding for specific rainfall zones has shaped divergent hydraulic strategies. HR genotypes utilize a conservative "hydraulic brake" mechanism driven by AQP downregulation to conserve water. Conversely, LR genotypes employ an acquisitive strategy, relying on coordinated anatomical capacity and molecular gating to meet high transpiration demands. These distinct mechanisms provide a blueprint for selecting resilient crops based on specific environmental pressures.