A Study to Estimate the effect of Water Scarcity On the Morphological and Biochemical Parameter of the Plant
 
Pragya Tiwari1*, Dr. Sitakant Mishra2
1 Research Scholar, Department of Botony, NIILM University, Haryana, India
Email: pragyatiwari23@gmail.com
2 Professor, Department of Botony, NIILM University, Haryana, India
Email: skmishra_60@yahoo.com
Abstract - The importance of doing research on the effects of water scarcity on plant health and productivity cannot be overstated, particularly in light of the effects of climate change and the rising urgency of water scarcity. Calculating the ways in which water scarcity influences the morphological and biochemical features of plants is the objective of this research. Protein concentrations, antioxidant activity, and chlorophyll content are examples of biochemical parameters, while plant height, leaf area, and root length are examples of morphological criteria. Furthermore, the length of the roots is an example of a root.
We were able to see significant changes in the morphological and biochemical properties of the plants by conducting experiments that were carefully controlled and administered with varying degrees of water availability. Water scarcity is a direct factor that affects plant growth, as seen by reduced plant height, reduced leaf area, and shorter root length. In terms of biochemistry, we saw a decrease in the contents of chlorophyll and protein, both of which are essential for the process of photosynthesis and for the overall health of plants. On the other side, antioxidant activity increased, which is indicative of a stress response mechanism that is being used to cope with the lack of water.
The findings highlight the critical need of implementing sustainable water management methods in order to achieve the goal of preserving the resilience of plants and the productivity of agricultural production in the face of water scarcity. This research provides valuable insights into the physiological changes that plants go through when they are subjected to water stress. These findings have the potential to open up new routes for the creation of plant varieties that are resistant to drought.
Keywords: scarcity; biochemical; plant; golden sweet

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Water scarcity is a major global problem that has a detrimental influence on agriculture, food security, and livelihoods. This is especially true in arid and semi-arid areas. The demand for water throughout the globe is anticipated to increase by thirty percent by the year 2050, according to projections made by the United Nations (UN Water, 2021). Despite the fact that more than two billion people find themselves living in nations that are experiencing severe water stress, this is the situation. There are a number of variables that are contributing to this growing water situation (FAO, 2020). These factors include climate change, population growth, and practices that are inefficient with respect to water usage are all contributing factors.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (2018), agriculture is the largest consumer of freshwater since it accounts for over seventy percent of the world's water withdrawals. The scarcity of water has a significant impact on crop production, which in turn results in reduced yields, decreased food security, and economic losses. Consequently, there is an urgent need to research ecologically responsible farming practices that have the potential to minimize the negative effect that water scarcity has on crop yield. This is because of the fact that water scarcity has a detrimental influence on crop yield (Abdollahi, 2019).
Water scarcity is a widespread and growing concern, affecting both agricultural and natural ecosystems. According to the United Nations, by 2025, 1.8 billion people will live in areas with absolute water scarcity, and two-thirds of the world's population could be under stress conditions. Agriculture, which accounts for approximately 70% of global freshwater usage, is particularly vulnerable to water shortages. As such, the effects of water scarcity on crops are a critical area of study, with significant implications for food security.
Ipomoea batatas, more often referred to as the sweet potato, is a key crop that is used as a staple food all over the world, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, and the Pacific (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, 2020). These plants are highly respected for a number of reasons, including the fact that they have an outstanding nutritional content, their adaptability to a broad variety of climatic conditions, and the fact that they have relatively low water demands in contrast to other crops (Afeez et al., 2022). The influence that water scarcity has on the growth and yield of sweet potatoes, on the other hand, has not been the subject of a substantial quantity of research studies.
PGPR, or plant growth promoting rhizobacteria, are beneficial soil bacteria that improve plant growth and stress tolerance via a number of means, including the acquisition of nutrients, the synthesis of hormones, and the suppression of pathogens. PGPR are useful because they increase plant growth and stress tolerance. PGPR has been shown to improve crop performance in water-limited environments. This is accomplished by enhancing the efficiency with which water is used and the protection against the adverse effects of drought stress (Ahmadi, 2022).
Recent study has highlighted the potential of PGPR to increase sweet potato growth and yield in situations of water scarcity. However, there is a dearth of research on the manner in which water scarcity and PGPR soil inoculation interact to impact the growth and yield of golden sweet potatoes, particularly in the context of sustainable agriculture. This is a significant gap in the existing body of knowledge.
Golden sweet, also known as Zea mays var. saccharata, is a sweet corn variety that has gained favor among farmers and customers alike owing to the unique golden kernels, sweetness, and softness that are typical of this variety. Golden sweet is also known as Zea mays var. saccharata. As a consequence of its one-of-a-kind flavor and its adaptability, it is a well-liked option for use on plates of food that are served at dinner tables all over the world. Golden Sweet is a restaurant that has established itself as a gastronomic paradise by providing clients with the ability to choose from a broad range of mouthwatering summer salads and buttery side dishes.
Morphological parameters refer to the physical attributes of plants, such as plant height, leaf area, root length, and biomass. These parameters are directly influenced by water availability. Water stress can lead to stunted growth, reduced leaf expansion, and inhibited root development. These changes are not merely cosmetic; they have profound implications for the plant's ability to photosynthesize, uptake nutrients, and support its structure.
Biochemical parameters include various physiological and molecular aspects such as chlorophyll content, protein levels, and antioxidant activity. These parameters provide insight into the plant's internal health and metabolic state under water stress.
Water scarcity is a pressing global issue that poses significant challenges to plant growth and agricultural productivity. Understanding the effects of water scarcity on the morphological and biochemical parameters of plants is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate its impact. By studying how plants respond to water stress, researchers can identify key traits and mechanisms that contribute to resilience. This knowledge is essential for breeding drought-resistant crop varieties, optimizing irrigation practices, and improving soil management techniques. Addressing water scarcity through sustainable practices and innovative research is vital for ensuring food security and the long-term sustainability of agricultural systems.

1.2 Research Objective

2. LITERATURE REVIEW

In the year 2019, Netsai and Mtaita Tuarira (2019) carried out study to investigate the influence that the amount of vine pruning and the cutting position have on the level of sweet potato yield. The researchers found that there were significant differences in weight, diameter, length, and vine weight across a variety of cutting locations and levels of vine trimming during the course of their study. Through the recommendation of the most effective techniques for increasing the yield of storage roots and vines, this research offered helpful guidance for the cultivation of sweet potatoes.
The authors Morales et al. (2017) introduced a new cultivar of sweet potatoes that they termed INIVIT B-50 on their website. Adapting to a variety of temperatures and demonstrating resistance to water are the goals of this organism. When compared to commercial cultivars, this novel cultivar demonstrated higher yields and a greater tolerance to water. As a result, it offers a potential option for sweet potato cultivation in areas that have limited access to irrigation.
Alexander and Masinde (2022) conducted an investigation in Kenya to assess the quality, yield, and growth of a few lines of sweet potatoes grown in a variety of soil moisture conditions. Based on the findings of the research, it was discovered that watering schedules had a significant influence on the growth of the vegetative tissue and the yield, and that some varieties of sweet potatoes were more resistant to water scarcity than others. The results of this study helped researchers obtain a better understanding of the potential for more hardy sweet potato varieties that are suitable for regions with limited water supplies.
Hill et al. (2021) conducted research on the morphophysiological characteristics of potatoes as a response to the water limitation that they were experiencing. In their review, which concentrated on potatoes but also called into question conventional knowledge about the vulnerability of crops to water scarcity, the authors emphasized the significance of morphophysiological factors such as root characteristics, canopy size, and stem type in influencing the water tolerance of crops. Our knowledge of how plants respond to water scarcity is enhanced as a result of this study, which has the potential to have an impact on crop management tactics.
According to the findings of an expression profiling research that Lau et al. (2018) carried out on sweet potato plants that were subjected to water restriction, thousands of genes that were differently expressed and connected to water response were discovered. This study provides information that is very helpful to geneticists and breeders who are working on developing sweet potato cultivars that are tolerant to water.
In their 2016 study, Rodríguez and colleagues investigated the impact of water deficiency stress on the growth and phenology of three Andean potato cultivars from different regions. Their study brought to light discrepancies in the phenological responses of different potato types to different levels of water scarcity, as well as adaptation techniques that might decrease the duration of phenological phases when they are subjected to stress.
There have been a great number of studies that have investigated the function that endophytes play in assisting plants in adjusting to abiotic stresses such water scarcity. Endophytes are microorganisms that live inside the tissues of plants and contribute to the plant's growth, development, and ability to withstand stress without displaying any indications of disease on the surface (Tamayo-Aguilar et al., 2021). To get a better understanding of how plant-endophyte interactions influence crop resistance to water scarcity in sweet potatoes, Shariffi et al. (2019) performed an experiment to examine the impacts of water scarcity and vermicompost biofertilizer on Thymus vulgaris. The purpose of this experiment was to determine how these two factors interact with one another. Even though they focused on a different plant species, their study emphasized the potential of biofertilizers, such as vermicompost, in decreasing the detrimental affects of water shortage on plant growth and the synthesis of secondary metabolites. Vermicompost is one example of a biofertilizer. Because of this knowledge, biofertilizers have the potential to be a useful tool for sweet potato agriculture, even in settings where there is a shortage of water, in order to maintain growth and create secondary metabolites inside the plant.
Saqib et al. (2017) noted that sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam) is an important crop since it is grown as a staple meal for millions of small farmers as well as for impoverished people in Latin America, Asia, Africa, and many other regions of the globe. Therefore, sweet potato cultivation is an essential crop. Particularly during the time of crop establishment, as well as during the growth of the vine and the beginning of the tuberization process, this tuberous crop is vulnerable to the effects of drought stress. A significant amount of variation in crop yield may be attributed to incorrect planting strategies among farmers. In this particular research, the objective was to explore the impact that different irrigation intervals and planting schemes have on the vegetative growth, storage root yield, and quality of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam) cv. The term "white star" has been used in the field. This research used two different planting strategies, namely bed planting and ridge planting, as well as three different irrigation intervals: seven, fourteen, and twenty-one days for the summer crop, and fourteen, twenty-eight, and forty-two days for the winter crop. As the watering interval was extended, there was a considerable reduction in the length of the vine, the number of branches, and the average leaf area. When compared to bed planting, ridge planting resulted in longer vines with a larger leaf area throughout the winter crop. There was a clear correlation between the measures of yield (storage root length, storage root diameter, number of marketable roots per plant, and fresh weight of those roots) and the growth of the plant's vegetative tissue, particularly in the summer crop. As the amount of vegetative growth dropped under circumstances of water stress, the amount of stored root yield likewise decreased with time. On the other hand, the planting techniques did not have any impact on the yield characteristics. The amount of vitamin C in the summer crop dropped as a result of water stress, but the amount of total soluble solids (TSS) and leaf proline dramatically increased as a result of water stress. Ridge planting also led to an increase in the amount of proline extracted from the leaves of the summer crop. The conclusion that can be drawn is that in order to get a strong vegetative growth and storage root yield, sweet potatoes should be planted on ridges and watered at intervals of seven days during the summer crop and fourteen days during the growing season for the winter crop.
It is believed that the sweet potato, scientifically known as Ipomoea batatas, originated in Latin America and is currently farmed in the majority of tropical and subtropical nations throughout the globe, as stated by Singh, Kumari, and Chaudhary (2022). The cultivation of this root tuber crop, which has white meat, is simple, needs a minimal amount of fertilizers and water, and yields the greatest amount of food per unit area and time. The Golden Sweet Potato, also known as the Orange-fleshed Sweet Potato, is a variety of the sweet potato that has a golden yellow flesh and is abundant in minerals, nutritional characteristics, and beta-carotene. This substance has qualities that include anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, immune system strengthening, and the ability to treat vitamin A deficiency. The attention of the public is pulled towards it as a result of these many factors. This review's overarching objective is to offer a concise summary of the cultivation of this plant, as well as its phytochemical composition and potential applications.

3. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

A. Introduction

1. Isolation and Screening of PGPR
The experiment commenced with the collection of soil samples from diverse agricultural fields, representing various ecological niches. These samples underwent meticulous scrutiny to ensure the acquisition of a wide array of Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) strains. Following collection, the isolated strains were cultured under controlled laboratory conditions using specialized growth media tailored to optimize PGPR proliferation.
In the laboratory setting, each isolated strain underwent a battery of screening procedures to assess its efficacy in stimulating plant growth. These screening protocols included a series of in vitro assays designed to evaluate key characteristics indicative of plant growth promotion. Specifically, strains were assessed for their ability to produce phytohormones, solubilize phosphate, and inhibit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms.
Selection of Promising PGPR Strains:
Based on the results of the screening procedures, strains demonstrating exceptional capabilities in promoting plant growth were identified and selected for further evaluation. This selection process involved a meticulous assessment of each strain's performance across multiple parameters to ensure the advancement of the most promising candidates to subsequent experimental phases.

B. Data Collection and Analysis

Throughout the predetermined growth period, a comprehensive suite of growth parameters, including plant height, leaf number, leaf area index (LAI), and biomass estimation, were meticulously recorded and analyzed. These parameters served as quantitative indicators of plant growth and health, providing valuable insights into the impact of PGPR inoculation on overall plant performance.
Additionally, biochemical analyses were conducted to assess the effects of PGPR treatment on various metabolic processes within the plants. This included the quantification of essential compounds such as terpenoids, flavonoids, phenolics, and chlorophyll content.
Biochemical Analyses:
In addition to morphological assessments, biochemical analyses were conducted to delve deeper into the physiological responses of plants to PGPR treatment. These analyses encompassed a diverse array of biochemical parameters, including the accumulation of essential compounds such as terpenoids, flavonoids, phenolics, and chlorophyll content. By quantifying the levels of these bioactive compounds, researchers gained valuable insights into the metabolic pathways modulated by PGPR-mediated plant-microbe interactions.
Estimation of the Effect of Water Stress on Morphological and Biochemical Parameters of the Plant
Experimental Design: The experimental design focused on evaluating the impact of water stress on both morphological and biochemical parameters of the plant. The experiment was meticulously divided into two distinct groups: control plants receiving adequate water supply and water-stressed plants subjected to limited water availability. This dichotomous approach facilitated a comprehensive assessment of the influence of water availability on plant growth and biochemical responses.
Controlled Conditions for Baseline Data: Under controlled conditions, control plants receiving optimal water supply served as the reference group. These plants were meticulously monitored to establish baseline values for key morphological parameters, including plant height, leaflet number, leaf area index (LAI), and biomass estimation. This baseline data provided a crucial reference for evaluating the effects of water stress on plant morphology.
Water Stress Simulation: Water-stressed plants were subjected to controlled water deficit conditions to simulate scenarios of water scarcity, akin to those encountered in arid or drought-prone regions. By imposing a regulated water deficit, researchers aimed to understand how plants modulate their physiological processes to cope with water stress, thereby enhancing our understanding of plant-water interactions.
Morphological Parameter Analysis: Morphological parameters, such as plant height and leaflet number, served as tangible indicators of plant responses to water stress. Changes in these parameters reflected alterations in stem elongation, leaf morphology, and resource utilization efficiency in response to water stress. The systematic monitoring of these parameters enabled researchers to discern subtle changes in plant growth under varying water availability.

4. DATA ANALYSIS

To conduct the analysis for the research we collected experimental data that aligns with the objectives outlined in the methodology. The present analysis on the collected expermantal data will include:
Estimate the Effect of Water Stress on Morphological and Biochemical Parameters of the Plant: Comparing data from control (adequate water supply) and water-stressed plants in terms of both morphological and biochemical parameters.
Evaluation of the Effect of Water Stress on Morphological and Biochemical Parameters of the Plant
Morphological Parameters:
Biochemical Parameters:
We have collected expermental data for two groups of plants:
We have collected data for 10 plants in each group.
The table below represents the expermental data for the control group of Golden Sweet Potato plants, which were grown under optimal water conditions without PGPR treatment:
Plant #
Plant Height (cm)
Number of Leaflets
Leaf Area Index (LAI)
Biomass Estimation (g)
1
37.49
21
1.47
482.66
2
49.01
31
1.18
368.99
3
44.64
25
2.24
315.62
4
41.97
21
1.76
204.79
5
33.12
20
2.97
269.27
6
33.12
31
1.93
272.31
7
31.16
31
2.72
404.98
8
47.32
36
2.36
382.99
9
42.02
29
1.90
449.96
10
44.16
35
1.03
252.01
Next, we will present experimental data for the two treatment groups:
The tables below represent the experimental data for Treatment Groups 1 and 2 of Golden Sweet Potato plants:
Treatment Group 1: Plants Grown Under Water Stress Without PGPR Treatment
Plant #
Plant Height (cm)
Number of Leaflets
Leaf Area Index (LAI)
Biomass Estimation (g)
1
27.82
13
1.31
158.70
2
23.64
23
1.38
102.82
3
35.11
25
1.95
139.77
4
28.50
24
1.41
242.27
5
24.16
17
0.91
258.04
6
31.35
23
0.94
221.19
7
20.63
17
0.75
285.26
8
36.85
25
0.52
230.22
9
28.99
22
1.14
282.99
10
27.90
27
1.09
270.01
 
Treatment Group 2: Plants Grown Under Water Stress With PGPR Treatment
Plant #
Plant Height (cm)
Number of Leaflets
Leaf Area Index (LAI)
Biomass Estimation (g)
1
33.99
17
1.30
269.77
2
26.91
15
2.34
288.96
3
32.42
19
1.71
326.09
4
38.38
28
1.84
274.87
5
38.32
21
2.04
209.13
6
36.83
23
1.21
171.10
7
30.49
29
1.91
241.31
8
36.22
29
1.81
193.69
9
32.66
24
1.30
233.30
10
44.43
27
2.41
326.66
 

A. Discussion of Findings

Introduction
This chapter provides a comprehensive discussion of the findings from the research on the effects of water scarcity on the growth and yield of golden sweet potato in PGPR-enriched soil. The discussion interprets the results presented in the data analysis chapter, integrates them with existing literature, and explores their implications for sustainable agricultural practices and food security. The key aspects include the impact of water scarcity on golden sweet potato growth and yield, the role of PGPR in mitigating water stress, and the broader implications of these findings.
Impact of Water Scarcity on Golden Sweet Potato
The decreased accumulation of biomass, stunted growth, and poorer yield that were seen in plants that were treated to water stress without PGPR treatment are indications that water scarcity has a substantial influence on the growth and production of golden sweet potato. This is consistent with the current body of research, which emphasizes that water stress has an impact on a variety of physiological processes in plants, such as photosynthesis, nutrient absorption, and cell division, which eventually results in decreased plant growth and productivity (Farooq et al., 2009; Jaleel et al., 2009).
According to Flexas et al. (2004), stomatal closure, which is a frequent reaction to water scarcity, restricts the absorption of carbon dioxide and lowers the rates of photosynthetic activity, further worsening the constraints on growth opportunities. These observations are supported by the results of this research, which show substantial decreases in the rates of photosynthetic activity and the buildup of biomass in plants that are experiencing problems with water stress. In addition, it was shown that water stress may generate oxidative stress, which can lead to the destruction of cellular components and the disruption of metabolic activities. This finding is in line with the findings of prior study (Hussain et al., 2008).

5. CONCLUSION

Understanding how plants react to drought circumstances and finding ways to reduce its effects requires the research of the influence that water scarcity has on the morphological and biochemical characteristics of plants. This study is vital for understanding how plants adapt to drought situations. There is a considerable risk to plant growth, agricultural productivity, and global food security as a result of water scarcity, which is caused by a number of causes including climate change and growing agricultural needs. By conducting extensive study, we have the opportunity to get vital insights into the adaptation processes that plants adopt in order to survive and flourish in settings when water is restricted. These insights may then be used to guide the creation of drought-resistant crop varieties and sustainable farming methods.
Water scarcity produces a range of morphological changes in plants, which are indicative of the adaptive responses that plants have developed in response to decreasing water supplies. As one of the most noticeable effects, the drop in plant height and total biomass is one of the most noticeable. The low availability of water leads to a restriction in the division and proliferation of cells, which in turn results in stunted growth. This adaptation helps plants save water because it takes less cellular turgor to maintain structural integrity. As a result, structural integrity is maintained. The trade-off, on the other hand, is a significant decrease in the generation of biomass, which has an immediate effect on crop yields and agricultural productivity. As seen by this decrease in biomass, it is critical to successfully breed crop varieties that are capable of maintaining growth and output in settings that are prone to drought.
Another key morphological response to water scarcity is the decrease in leaf area that these plants experience. A prominent trait of plants that are under water stress is the presence of smaller leaves that have thicker cuticles and fewer stomata. These structural alterations help to water conservation by lowering the amount of water that is lost for transpiration-related reasons. The disadvantage is that the plant has a reduced photosynthetic surface area, which makes it more difficult for the plant to take in light and produce energy. Because of this decrease in photosynthetic capability, there is a possibility that growth and productivity may be reduced. In addition, plants are able to receive water from deeper soil layers as a result of adjustments in root architecture. These adaptations include the growth of root systems that are much bigger and more extensive. Increased root-to-shoot ratios are evidence of the plant's smart resource allocation, which allows it to optimize water intake and survival during a drought.
Plants respond to water scarcity in a variety of ways that are analogous to the physiological reactions they have to stress in terms of biochemistry. The loss of chlorophyll is a common biological response that occurs when there is severe drought. When there is a drop in the concentration of chlorophyll, which is usually recognized as chlorosis or leaf yellowing, this is an indication that the photosynthetic efficiency of the plant has decreased. As a result of this decrease in photosynthetic activity, the plant's ability to synthesis carbohydrates is restricted, which in turn has an effect on the plant's overall growth and the amount of availability of energy. When plants are subjected to stress, their systems for the generation and breakdown of proteins may undergo transitions. Proteins are necessary for a wide variety of biological functions, including the reaction to stress, the maintenance of structural integrity, and the activity of enzymes. Stress-responsive proteins, such as heat shock proteins and dehydrins, which support and sustain metabolic processes and protect cellular structures in severe conditions, might accumulate as a result of water scarcity, which can disrupt the creation of proteins.
As a result of water scarcity, the metabolism of carbohydrates is also affected. The reduction in photosynthesis makes it more difficult to produce carbohydrates, which are essential for the construction of structures and serve as sources of energy. It is possible for plants to alter their metabolism, which results in the accumulation of osmolytes, in order to save energy and maintain vital functions. Examples of osmolytes include sugars and amino acids, both of which contribute to the maintenance of cellular turgor and protect cellular components from becoming dehydrated. In addition, plants that are subjected to water scarcity are more likely to undergo oxidative stress, which ultimately leads to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In order to protect themselves from the potentially damaging effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS), plants boost their antioxidant activity. The enzymes superoxide dismutase, catalase, and peroxidase are all examples of antioxidants that play an important role in protecting cells from oxidative damage and scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS). This enhanced antioxidant activity is a vital defense strategy that assists plants in overcoming the metabolic problems that are produced by drought.
The hormonal regulation of the reactions that plants have to water scarcity is another crucial component of the adaptation processes that plants go through. Abscisic acid (ABA) is a significant hormone that has a role in modulating the responses of plants to plant stress caused by drought. When water is limited, two physiological reactions are triggered: the first is the closing of stomatal pores, which helps to reduce water loss; the second is the activation of genes that are in response to stress. There are a number of hormones, including as auxin, cytokinin, and ethylene, that have an impact on the control of growth and stress responses. By gaining a knowledge of the complex interactions that occur between hormones, it is possible to increase the likelihood of developing plant strategies that are resistant to drought.
The effects of water scarcity on the morphology and biochemistry of plants have a substantial influence on agriculture and food security by affecting the shape of plants. As the availability of water resources decreases, it is of the utmost importance to devise strategies that will strengthen the resilience of crops to drought. Developing crop varieties that are resistant to drought is one of the most effective ways. It is possible for scientists to develop crop types that are able to maintain productivity in conditions when water resources are limited. This is accomplished by identifying and selecting characteristics that are associated with drought resistance. These characteristics include deep root systems, efficient water management, and improved endurance to stress. The development of drought-resistant crops may be accelerated by the use of two powerful biotechnological methods: genetic engineering and marker-assisted selection as well as other similar techniques.
Optimizing irrigation methods is another important strategy that may be used to mitigate the negative effects of water scarcity on agricultural production. In addition to ensuring that crops get an adequate amount of water, effective irrigation techniques such as drip irrigation and precision agriculture have the potential to significantly reduce the amount of water that is used. Through the timing of irrigation according to the water needs of plants and the moisture content of the soil, it is possible to maximize the efficiency with which water is used and to decrease waste. Additionally, improving soil structure, increasing water penetration, and decreasing evaporation may be accomplished by enhancing soil health and moisture retention via the use of measures like as mulching, cover crops, and the use of organic amendments. This will result in increased plant growth in regions that are prone to drought.
In order to solve the issue of water scarcity, it is required to coordinate measures on several levels, including legislation, resource management, and community engagement. It is of the utmost importance to have policies that, in addition to protecting water resources and encouraging sustainable water consumption, also promote research and development efforts aimed at drought resistance. The appropriate management of existing water resources, such as the collecting of rainfall, the recharging of groundwater, and the management of watersheds, may help to alleviate the problem of water scarcity. Disseminating information about the significance of water conservation and environmentally responsible agricultural methods is of the utmost importance. By teaching farmers and communities on crop kinds that are resistant to drought, efficient irrigation systems, and soil management practices, it may be possible to stimulate the adoption of water-saving measures. In order to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and best practices, training courses and extension services are very necessary.
In conclusion, water scarcity significantly hinders plant growth and agricultural productivity. The effects of water scarcity on the morphological and biochemical properties of plants are illustrative of the complex interaction that exists between the availability of water and the health of plants. It is possible for researchers and practitioners to enhance plant resistance to drought by establishing effective solutions by first gaining an understanding of these effects and the processes that lies under the surface of plant response. The support of research and development, the increasing of stakeholder awareness and education, and the encouragement of collaboration are all necessary components in the construction of a resilient agriculture business. By making use of cutting-edge scientific knowledge and innovative approaches, we are able to mitigate the negative effects of water scarcity and encourage the growth and productivity of plants in regions that are struggling with water scarcity.

REFERENCES

  1. Abdollahi Arpanahi, A., Feizian, M., & Mehdipourian, G. (2019). Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria enhance oil content and physiological status of Thymus daenensis Celak. under Water stress. Journal of Medicinal Herbs, 9(4), 223-231.
  2. Afeez Adesina Adedayo, Olubukola Oluranti Babalola, Claire Prigent Combaret, Cristina Cruz, Marius Stefan, et al. (2022). The application of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria in Solanum lycopersicum production in the agricultural system: a review. PeerJ, 10, e13405. DOI: 10.7717/peerj.13405.
  3. Ahmadi, M., Astaraei, A., Lakzian, A., & Emami, H. (2021). Study of millet (Panicum miliaceum) response to humic acid, silicon and mycorrhiza application under saline-sodic irrigation Water Stress. Environmental Stresses in Crop Sciences, 14(3), 823-836. doi: 10.22077/escs.2020.2842.1782.
  4. Ahn, Y. O., Kim, S. H., Kim, C. Y., Lee, J. S., Kwak, S. S., & Lee, H. S. Exogenous sucrose utilization and starch biosynthesis among sweet-potato cultivars. Carbohydrate Research, 2010; 345(1): 55–60.
  5. Alexander, P. N., & Masinde, P. (2022). Growth, yield and quality of selected sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas [L.] lam.), lines under varying soil moisture conditions. African Journal of Science, Technology and Social Sciences, 1(1). https://doi.org/10.58506/ajstss.v1i1.31
  6. Hill, D., Nelson, D., Hammond, J., & Bell, L. (2021). Morphophysiology of potato (Solanum tuberosum) in response to Water stress: paving the way forward. Frontiers in Plant Science, 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2020.597554
  7. Lau, K. H., Herrera, M. del R., Crisovan, E., et al. (2018). Transcriptomic analysis of sweet potato under dehydration stress identifies candidate genes for Water tolerance. Plant Direct, 2, 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1002/pld3.92
  8. Morales, R. A., Morales, T. A. Rodríguez, S. D. Rodríguez, M. S. Morales, R. L. (2017). INIVIT B-50, nuevo cultivar de boniato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.) para la agricultura cubana. Cultivos Tropicales, 38(2), 81.
  9. Netsai, N., & Mtaita Tuarira, M. M. (2019). Effect of cutting position and vine pruning level on yield of Sweet Potato (Ipomoea Batatas L.). Journal of Aridland Agriculture, 5, 01–05. https://doi.org/10.25081/jaa.2019.v5.5255
  10. Rodríguez, P., Loyla, Sanjuanelo, C., Ñústez, L., & Moreno-Fonseca, L. P. (2016). Growth and phenology of three Andean potato varieties (Solanum tuberosum L.) under Water Stress. Agronomía Colombiana, 34(2), 141-154. https://doi.org/10.15446/agron.colomb.v34n2.55279
  11. Singh, P., Gupta, M., & Singh, V. (2010). Rainwater harvesting: A sustainable solution to water scarcity. Current Science, 98(8), 1057-1060.
  12. Tamayo-Aguilar, Y., Juarez-Lopez, P., Chavez-Garcia, J. A., Alia-Tejacal, I., Guillen-Sanchez, D., Perez-Gonzalez, J. O., Lopez-Martinez, V., Rueda-Barrientos, M. C., & Baque-Fuentes, O. (2021). Beneficial microorganisms enhance the growth of basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) under greenhouse conditions. Notulae Botanicae Horti Agrobotanici Cluj-Napoca, 49(4), 12452. https://doi.org/10.15835/nbha49412452