Harnessing genetic diversity for enhanced breeding of Paspalum vaginatum: a comprehensive review

• Comprehensive synthesis of genetic diversity in Paspalum vaginatum germplasm • Integration of morphological, cytogenetic, and molecular diversity assessments • Advances in genomic and transcriptomic resources for stress tolerance breeding • Genetic bases of salinity, cold, drought, and cadmium tolerance summarized • Future breeding strategies leveraging multi-omics and molecular selection Genetic diversity, encompassing heritable variations within and among populations, is the focus of this paper, which delineates the heritable variations among Paspalum vaginatum germplasm resources. P. vaginatum , a warm-season perennial C4 grass of the Poaceae family, is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical coastal regions such as the southern United States, Australia, and southern China. Known for its ease of propagation and robust salt tolerance, this species is commonly used as a turfgrass in coastal areas and shows significant potential for phytoremediation and amelioration of saline-alkali soils. The germplasm resources of P. vaginatum display extensive variability in morphological traits and stress resistance characteristics. To effectively harness this variability for developing new cultivars and improving existing ones, various methods have been employed in recent years to assess the extent of variation and elucidate patterns of genetic diversity among P. vaginatum germplasm. This review paper provides a concise summary of advancements in the study of genetic diversity in P. vaginatum through morphological, cytological, and molecular approaches. It also presents the current status of genomic research on P. vaginatum and discusses prospects for future breeding directions.