Subtropical Plant Science

Identification and Expression Analysis of the Dof Gene Family in Eucalyptus grandis

YANG Yu-ting, FENG Zi-yi, WU Ai-min

2026, 55(1): 1-11. DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1009-7791.2026.01.001

Abstract ( )

PDF (8525KB) ( )

The Dof (DNA binding with one finger) family of transcription factors is a special kind found in plants and is crucial for biological processes including photomorphogenesis, stress response, and plant growth and development. This research focuses on the Eucalyptus grandis Dof gene family, systematically analyzing its evolutionary relationships, gene structure, cis-acting elements, member identification, and synteny analysis. According to the findings, 26 members of the Dof gene family were found in the E. grandis genome. These members generally reside in the nucleus, with protein lengths ranging from 183 to 516 amino acids, and an isoelectric point that is often higher than 7.0. According to chromosomal location, all proteins have the characteristic Dof zinc finger domain, and the 26 EgrDof genes are widely dispersed over 10 chromosomes. According to an analysis of the cis-acting regions in the promoters, abiotic stress regulation, hormone response, and light sensing are all extensively impacted by genes. EgrDofs expression levels are higher in stems and phloem, while levels are comparatively low in leaves at various development stages. This study offers a strong basis for comprehending the regulatory networks and biological functions of Dof genes.

References | Related Articles | Metrics

Genome-Wide Association Study of Okra Seed Germination Rate under Seawater Stress Conditions

HUA Xin-tao, TANG Zi-qi, YANG Yun, ZHANG Yan, LI Hui-wen, LI Yi-ying, SHU Yang-pei, SUN Jian, XIE Dong-wei

2026, 55(1): 12-26. DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1009-7791.2026.01.002

Abstract ( )

PDF (8373KB) ( )

To explore the candidate genes related to salt tolerance in okra under seawater stress, 180 okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) germplasm resources from various sources were used as materials, and the seeds were treated with seawater at 3‰ and 6‰ salinity. The germination percentage and relative germination percentage were measured, genome-wide association study (GWAS) was performed with SNP markers, and candidate gene screening was performed by transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq). The results showed that 3‰ and 6‰ salinity of seawater had different degrees of inhibition on the germination rate of okra seeds. A total of 75 SNP loci were screened out by GWAS. An association interval was detected on chromosome 54, and four SNP loci were detected simultaneously under seawater stress of 3‰ and 6‰ salinity, which were important loci for controlling the relative germination rate and salt tolerance, and a total of 54 annotated genes were detected within 100 kb of the upstream and downstream of the four SNPs. Based on the results of transcriptome sequencing under seawater stress at the seedling stage of okra, six differentially expressed genes were screened out as candidate genes for salt tolerance of okra under seawater stress, namely Ae54G020550, Ae54G020570, Ae54G020630, Ae54G020730, Ae54G020810 and Ae54G020890, and the annotation functions were cytoskeletal composition, encoding CYSTM protein, NPH3 or BTB/POZ protein, alcohol dehydrogenase, leucine-rich repeats, and PPR family proteins. These results provide a reference for analyzing the function of salt tolerance genes in okra and the molecular mechanism of salt tolerance.

References | Related Articles | Metrics

Virtual Screening and Activity Validation of Plant-Derived Mosquito Repellent Active Ingredients

REN Xuan-li, ZHOU Yao, FENG Dong-ju, WU Wei, HOU Kai

2026, 55(1): 27-36. DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1009-7791.2026.01.003

Abstract ( )

PDF (3350KB) ( )

Investigating the mechanism by which plant essential oils and chemical repellents interact with the olfactory receptor IR8a of Aedes albopictus is of significant importance for the development of novel plant-based mosquito repellents. To clarify the effects of different repellent components on mosquito olfactory receptors, this study screened 33 plant essential oils main constituents and chemical repellents (DEET and pyrethroids). Molecular docking-based virtual screening was performed using AutoDock4.2 and AutoDockVina, followed by behavioral validation. The results showed that AutoDock 4.2 identified cedrol (CAS 77-53-2), patchouli alcohol (CAS 5986-55-0), and santonin (CAS 481-06-1) as having the lowest binding energies to IR8a (–5.28, –5.28, and –4.92 kcal·mol^-1, respectively). AutoDockVina screening revealed that 6α-hydroxytaxol (CAS 153212-75-0), cedrol, and patchouli alcohol exhibited the most favorable binding affinities (–10.1, –6.7, and –6.6 kcal·mol^-1, respectively). In behavioral assays, 1% DEET and a combination of 1% cyhalothrin +1% patchouli alcohol showed the best repellent efficacy at 5 minutes, while 1% DEET+1% cedrol performed better after 10 minutes. Synergistic effects were observed in both DEET + cedrol and cyfluthrin + patchouli alcohol combinations. In conclusion, this study further confirmed that cedrol (from cedarwood oil), patchouli alcohol (from patchouli oil), and DEET-based combinations exhibit high binding affinity to IR8a, demonstrating strong repellent activity against A. albopictus. These findings provide a pool of candidate compounds for the screening and development of plant-based mosquito repellents.

References | Related Articles | Metrics

Effects of Different Sunflecks Environments on Leaf Anatomical Structure and Photosynthetic Characteristics in Impatiens hainanensis

WANG Yun-jin, WANG Jin, YANG Can-hua, ZHANG Jin-ling, HE Zi-yu

2026, 55(1): 37-48. DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1009-7791.2026.01.004

Abstract ( )

PDF (6712KB) ( )

To investigate the response of the extremely small population species Impatiens hainanensis to different sunfleck environments, this study used six-month-old I. hainanensis as experimental materials. Based on the light environment thresholds of natural habitats, three treatments were established: 20% light transmission (control), 20% sunflecks, and 50% sunflecks environments. Growth parameters, leaf anatomical structure, and photosynthetic characteristics were comparatively analyzed. The results showed that: (1) The sunflecks environments significantly promoted both plant height and crown width growth of I. hainanensis, while the ground diameter remained unaffected. (2) The 50% sunflecks environment notably increased stomatal density. (3) After 40 days of sunflecks treatment, the leaf structure of I. hainanensis under the 50% sunflecks environment exhibited superior leaf thickness and mesophyll tissue development compared to the 20% sunflecks area, while other structural indicators remained stable. (4) Prolonged exposure to the 50% sunflecks environment was more conducive to maintaining photosynthetic pigment content in I. hainanensis, particularly in promoting carotenoid accumulation. (5) Sustained exposure to the 50% sunflecks environment consistently and significantly enhanced the net photosynthetic rate of I. hainanensis, demonstrating clear advantages in improving stomatal conductance and transpiration rate. (6) With the extension of sunflecks treatment duration, the MDA content exhibited an initial increase followed by a decrease. In later stages, no significant membrane lipid peroxidation damage was observed in I. hainanensis, indicating its ability to adapt to various sunflecks environments over extended periods without suffering oxidative stress. Research indicates that I. hainanensis adapts to different sunflecks environments by regulating leaf structure and photosynthetic characteristics. Under 50% sunflecks exposure, it can significantly optimize leaf anatomical structure and photosynthetic performance, achieving optimal growth status. This study provides critical illumination management guidelines for the introduction, domestication, artificial breeding, and population restoration of I. hainanensis. Simultaneously, it offers important scientific basis for in-depth understanding of sunflecks adaptation in limestone understory plants and the conservation and management of understory vegetation in tropical rainforests.

References | Related Articles | Metrics

Comparison of Chlorophyll Content and Anatomical Structure of Leaves in 17 Cymbidium goeringii Varieties

LI Yu-yan, WU Hang-hai, LIU Zi-chun, TANG Si-ying, LI Si-xuan, AI Ye

2026, 55(1): 49-56. DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1009-7791.2026.01.005

Abstract ( )

PDF (534KB) ( )

The chlorophyll content and anatomical structure of leaves of different varieties of Cymbidium goeringii were compared to provide basic data and theoretical reference for their cultivation management, variety improvement and leaf function analysis. Seventeen varieties of C. goeringii were selected to determine the chlorophyll content, stomatal structure and cross-sectional structure of their leaves by using the SPAD chlorophyll meter method, nail polish method and freehand sectioning method. The results showed that there were significant differences in chlorophyll content among the varieties of C. goeringii, with SPAD values ranging from 43.07 to 67.84. Among them, the SPAD value of 'Jinxiu Zhonghua' was the lowest and that of 'Lvying' was the highest. The stomatal structure of leaves of C. goeringii showed that the stomatal long axis of 'Jinxiu Zhonghua' was the smallest and that of 'Xueshan' was the largest; the stomatal short axis and stomatal area of 'Datuanyuan' were the smallest and those of 'Xiaodamei' were the largest; the stomatal density of 'Xueshan' was the smallest and that of 'Huanqiu' was the largest. The cross-sectional structure of leaves of C. goeringii showed that the upper epidermis thickness of 'Datuanyuan' was the smallest and that of 'Longzi' was the largest; the lower epidermis thickness of 'Jinxiu Zhonghua' was the smallest and that of 'Zhonghua Yipinmei' was the largest; the long axis of leaf vein of 'Tianpeng Mudan' was the smallest, the short axis of leaf vein of 'Xiaodamei' was the smallest, and the long axis and short axis of leaf vein of 'Dayuanbao' were the largest; the leaf thickness of 'Jinxiu Zhonghua' was the smallest, the mesophyll thickness of 'Yuhuadie' was the smallest, and the leaf thickness and mesophyll thickness of 'Guiyuan' were the largest. The correlation analysis revealed varying degrees of correlation among the leaf indicators of C. goeringii. The SPAD value showed a highly significant positive correlation with leaf thickness, and significant positive correlations with short axis of leaf vein and mesophyll thickness. The stomatal area demonstrated a highly significant positive correlation with stomatal long axis and stomatal short axis, while showing a significant negative correlation with short axis of leaf vein. The long axis of leaf vein exhibited a highly significant positive correlation with short axis of leaf vein. The leaf thickness demonstrated a highly significant positive correlation with mesophyll thickness. There were significant differences in chlorophyll content and anatomical structure among seventeen varieties of C. goeringii, indicating that there might be significant differences in photosynthetic capacity and stress resistance among the varieties.

References | Related Articles | Metrics

Effects of Microbial Fertilizers on the Growth of Bischofia javanica Transplanted Trees and Soil Improvement in Coastal Challenging Green Spaces

LI Ju-kui, ZHAI Xiu-cai, CHEN Yue-qin, GUO Xiao-hong, YANG Zhi-min, PAN Wei-jie, LIAO Qi-liao, CHEN Xiao-yan

2026, 55(1): 57-63. DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1009-7791.2026.01.006

Abstract ( )

PDF (549KB) ( )

To improve the planting quality of coastal difficult green spaces, microbial fertilizers were used to promote seedling growth and improve soil. Four treatments were set up: organic fertilizer+compound fertilizer (traditional fertilization, CK), solid microbial inoculants+compound fertilizer (T1), solid microbial inoculants+ liquid microbial inoculants+humic acid water-soluble fertilizer (T2), and solid microbial inoculants+compound microbial fertilizer (T3). The effects of microbial fertilizer application on Bischofia javanica seedling growth, root activity, salt ion content, and soil physicochemical properties were analyzed. The results showed that after 6 months of transplanting, the application of microbial fertilizers significantly promoted seedling growth, improved soil physicochemical properties, and inhibited soil salinization, with a survival rate of 100%. In contrast, the survival rate of seedlings with traditional fertilization was only 80%, with leaf curling and wilting, a tendency for top baldness, and salt damage characteristics. Compared with CK, the number of new shoots, root activity, and chlorophyll SPAD of microbial fertilizers increased by 9.7%–34.8%, 26.2%–49.6%, and 6.9%–14.0%, respectively. Treatment T2 had the best effect, followed by T3 and T1. Treatment T2 significantly increased the total nitrogen, alkali-hydrolyzed nitrogen, available potassium, and organic matter content in the soil, and regulated soil pH. After 6 months of transplanting, the chloride ion (Cl^–) and sodium ion (Na⁺) content in the upper layer of the soil (0–30 cm) was higher than that in the lower layer (30–60 cm), showing characteristics of salinization. There was no significant difference in sodium ion (Na⁺) content among the treatments. Treatment T3 had the most significant effect on inhibiting chloride ion (Cl^–) content, followed by T1 and T2. In summary, the application of microbial fertilizers can promote root growth and new shoot development of transplanting seedlings, increase seedling survival rates, and improve soil fertility. The best effect was achieved with the application of solid microbial inoculants+liquid microbial inoculants+humic acid water-soluble fertilizer. For inhibiting soil salinization, the best effect was achieved with the application of solid microbial inoculants + compound microbial fertilizer.

References | Related Articles | Metrics

Isolation and Identification of Major Pathogenic Fungi During Castanea henryi Storage

LI Hui-yao, LIN Shu-ting, FAN Zi-wei, MA Chun-hua, FU Xin-zheng, CHEN Yi-hui, ZHANG Jing

2026, 55(1): 64-72. DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1009-7791.2026.01.007

Abstract ( )

PDF (19997KB) ( )

Castanea henryi is susceptible to spoilage during storage, primarily due to pathogenic infection. In this study, the main cultivated variety C. henryi 'Youzhen' in northern Fujian were used as experimental material. Pathogenic fungi were isolated and purified from decayed kernel tissues, followed by identification based on morphological and molecular biological methods. A phylogenetic tree was constructed to clarify the taxonomic status of the isolated strains. The results showed that the pathogens responsible for C. henryi spoilage included Gd21Ⅱ, Dd13, Dc21, Ga11, Gd21Ⅰ, Bc21, Gd12Ⅱ, Fd12Ⅱ, Ad11, Fd12Ⅰ，Fd13, Dd11, and Gb23, which were respectively classified as Penicillium mallochii, Cladosporium sp., Botryosphaeria dothidea, Debaryomyces robertsiae, Candida sp., Diaporthe sp., and Pseudomonas oryzihabitans. Through the isolation and identification of major pathogenic fungi during storage, this study clarifies the species and phylogenetic classification of the spoilage-causing microorganisms, providing a theoretical basis for the development of postharvest storage and preservation techniques for C. henryi. It also provides a theoretical basis for the development of new preservation technologies for C. henryi.

References | Related Articles | Metrics

Epiphytic Habits and Habitat Distribution Characteristics of Dendrobium sinense in National Park of Hainan Tropical Rainforest

LIANG Li, ZHANG Wen-long, ZHONG Yun-fang, FENG Xue-ping, SONG Xi-qiang

2026, 55(1): 73-82. DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1009-7791.2026.01.008

Abstract ( )

PDF (6094KB) ( )

Dendrobium sinense, a species endemic to Hainan, is often used as a traditional medicine by the Li people in Hainan. It is rich in medicinal active ingredients but is in an endangered state due to environmental influences. This study investigated the living habits and habitat distribution characteristics of D. sinense in Hainan Tropical Rainforest National Park through field measurement. The results showed that D. sinense was mostly distributed at an angle of 40° to 60°, usually facing southwest, and at a height of 4 to 6 meters. D. sinense plants were more frequently found on trees with a diameter at breast height of 40 to 60 cm. In different habitats, the plants were more abundant on slopes with a gradient of 0 to 15° and facing east. Redundancy analysis indicated that temperature and humidity were the key environmental factors affecting the growth habits of D. sinense. The research results provide a theoretical basis for the future conservation and utilization of D. sinense resources in different regions.

References | Related Articles | Metrics

Analysis of Geographical Pattern Characteristics and Functional Value of Wild Melastomataceae in Fujian Province

HE Yao, CHANG Meng-lin, LIN Qing-qing

2026, 55(1): 83-91. DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1009-7791.2026.01.009

Abstract ( )

PDF (3199KB) ( )

Based on field investigation and literature analysis, this study established the resource database of wild Melastomataceae plants in Fujian Province, and then statistically analyze the composition and flora of the genus, the distribution of species resources and functional value, in order to provide basic data for the protection and development of its germplasm resources. As of September 2025, there were 30 species of 13 genera in this family, including 7 species of Melastoma, accounting for the largest proportion of the total species (23.33%). There were 5 genera of single species, accounting for 38.46% of the total genera. The life form is dominated by shrubs, accounting for 70%; there are 8 genera of plants related to the distribution of tropical flora, accounting for 61.54% of the total genera. The plants of this family are distributed in 9 prefecture-level cities in Fujian Province. Zhangzhou City (22 species) is the most, and Nanjing County (18 species) is the most at the county-level scale, with the highest species richness. In terms of functional value, there are 23 species of medicinal plants belonging to 13 genera in the family, of which 12 species are used as whole plants. In terms of medicinal efficacy classification, the number of heat-clearing and detoxifying species ranks first, with a total of 15 species. Most of the Melastomataceae plants have high ornamental value, which can be used for garden viewing and so on, and have great development potential.

References | Related Articles | Metrics

Begonia burkillii var. deergongensis, A New Berry-fruited Variety of Begonia (sect. Platycentrum) from Xizang of China

WANG Wen-guang, WANG Zhong-xuan, XI Hou-cheng, XI Hui-peng, MA Xing-da, SHEN Jian-yong

2026, 55(1): 92-96. DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1009-7791.2026.01.010

Abstract ( )

PDF (5449KB) ( )

Begonia burkillii Dunn var. deergongensis W. G. Wang, Z. X. Wang & J. Y. Shen, a new variety with berry-like fruits, from Medog County, Xizang, China, is here confirmed and described. The new variety shows morphological similarities most similar to B. burkillii, but can be significantly distinguished from B. burkillii by its grooved petiole. The staminate flowers have 2(–4) tepals, while the pistillate ones have 2 tepals, and the tepal apices are rounded and obtuse. It is also similar to B. handelii, yet differs clearly by the short, slender rhizome and the red spots on the petiole, tepals, and ovary, as well as by having 2(–4) tepals in staminate and 2 tepals in pistillate flowers. Detailed notes on morphology, distribution, and phenology, as well as colour photographs, are provided. The conservation status of the new variety is assessed in accordance with the Guidelines for Using the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria.

References | Related Articles | Metrics

Eight Newly Recorded Species of Lycophytes and Ferns Pteridophytes from Fujian Province

ZHAN Yan-ting, ZHI Lin-Yao, LIN Yu-fang, ZHANG Miao, CHEN Bing-hua

2026, 55(1): 97-103. DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1009-7791.2026.01.011

Abstract ( )

PDF (13557KB) ( )

This study documents eight lycophytes and ferns species newly recorded for Fujian Province, China: Selaginella vaginata Spring, S. leptophylla Baker, Sceptridium daucifolium (Wall. ex Hook. & Grev.) Y. X. Lin, Physematium manchuriense (Hook.) Nakai, Didymoglossum sublimbatum Ebihara & K. Iwats., Athyrium anisopterum Christ, Polystichum deltodon (Baker) Diels, and Tectaria devexa (Kunze) Copel. These taxa represent seven genera in seven families. The records further include the first provincial occurrence of the family Woodsiaceae and of the genera Didymoglossum and Physematium in Fujian. These additions expand the known diversity of the province’s lycophytes and ferns and provide baseline data for floristic and biogeographic studies of the regional vascular flora.

References | Related Articles | Metrics

Ombrocharis Hand.-Mazz., a Newly Recorded Genus of Lamiaceae in Guangdong

TONG Yi-hua, HUANG Fu-chang

2026, 55(1): 104-107. DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1009-7791.2026.01.012

Abstract ( )

PDF (6216KB) ( )

This paper reported a newly recorded genus of Lamiaceae in Guangdong, namely Ombrocharis Hand.-Mazz., a monotypic genus containing only the type species, O. dulcis Hand.-Mazz. This species was previously recognized as a rare species endemic to Hunan, but has since been reported successively in Guangxi, Fujian and Guizhou. Recently, a population of this species was found growing along a stream under evergreen broadleaf forest in Guangdong Nanling National Nature Reserve, representing its southernmost population. This new finding is of great significant value for the future study on the geographical distribution, origin and the dispersal of O. dulcis. The voucher specimens are deposited in the herbarium of South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences (IBSC).

References | Related Articles | Metrics

Research Progress on Effects of Low Light on the Content, Biosynthesis and Signal Pathways of Several Plant Hormones

HE Shi-qi, QIU Jia-he, SONG Li-li

2026, 55(1): 108-119. DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1009-7791.2026.01.013

Abstract ( )

PDF (1560KB) ( )

Light is important for growth, development and morphogenesis of plants. As an abiotic stress, low light significantly affects the biosynthesis and metabolism of plant hormones and results in changes of their levels and signal transduction. The article reviews the recent progress of low light on the content, biosynthesis and signal transduction of auxin, cytokinin, ethylene, abscisic acid, gibberellin, jasmonic acid and salicylic acid, respectively, and prospects the future research directions, which are helpful for elucidation of low light response mechanism in plants.

References | Related Articles | Metrics

Research Progress on Strigolactone Analogues and Its Fluorescent Probes

LEI Jie, LIANG Qi-wen, ZHANG Xue-qing, DENG Zhi-wei, ZHOU Shu-bo, MA Li-ying, XIAO Lang-tao

2026, 55(1): 120-130. DOI: 10.3969/j.issn.1009-7791.2026.01.014

Abstract ( )

PDF (650KB) ( )

Strigolactones (SLs), a novel class of carotenoid-derived phytohormones, play crucial roles in regulating various physiological processes including plant growth, development, morphogenesis, and stress responses. It demonstrates great application potential in shaping crop architecture, eliminating parasitic weeds, and promoting beneficial microbial symbiosis. Developing SLs analogs with stable structures, low costs, and enhanced activity holds significant theoretical and practical value. This review systematically summarizes the biological functions and molecular mechanisms of SLs, with particular emphasis on how structural modifications influence their bioactivity. Furthermore, it provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in fluorescent probe technology for studying strigolactone signaling pathways. There are still core challenges in moving from basic combination studies to in vivo, multi-component, real-time dynamic imaging, and in developing dedicated probe tools for high-throughput screening. This paper provides a theoretical basis and research ideas for a deeper understanding of the mechanism of action of strigolactones and for the development of new plant growth regulators.

References | Related Articles | Metrics

Current Issue