Drought-induced water stress and its effects on plant growth, photosynthesis and productivity

Abstract

Drought-induced water stress is a major environmental constraint on plant growth because it affects water relations, root architecture, leaf development, photosynthesis, respiration, mineral nutrition and ultimately biomass and yield. This article develops an original student research project on ecological stress into a structured review focused on plant responses to water deficit, while retaining the project’s core explanations and four original visual materials. The source work examined drought avoidance and tolerance strategies, abscisic-acid-mediated stomatal responses, changes in leaf area and root morphology, reductions in photosynthetic activity, respiratory and metabolic adjustments, and the additional pressure created by soil salinity. The present study reorganizes these observations thematically and compares them with peer-reviewed evidence on drought physiology, root responses and salinization in the Kura–Araz lowland. The review shows that water stress affects plants through interacting morphological and physiological pathways rather than through a single mechanism. Moderate adaptation can include deeper or reconfigured roots, reduced leaf area and osmotic adjustment, whereas severe or prolonged stress can restrict carbon assimilation, nutrient acquisition and productivity. Salinity may compound these effects by creating osmotic and ionic stress. In Azerbaijan, these processes are relevant to water-efficient agriculture, soil management and the resilience of landscapes connected to the Kura system. The article concludes that efficient irrigation, salinity control, drought-tolerant crop selection, monitoring and ecosystem-based restoration are complementary components of green and climate-resilient agricultural development.