Climate change and the resulting extreme weather events, such as heatwaves and drought, are currently posing a threat to agricultural production in certain regions of the world, with their frequency gradually increasing. It seems that disasters come earlier and, in more forms, than people predicted. Although elevated atmospheric CO2 concentrations (eCO2), acting as a form of carbon fertilizer, theoretically enhance crop photosynthesis and promote food production, they also serve as a driving force for global warming, thereby accelerating climate change and the frequency of extreme weather events.

Despite global governmental efforts, the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere continued to rise faster than natural processes could absorb. In addition, the adverse changes in other environmental factors, such as increased ozone concentration, have universally affected ecosystems worldwide and significantly influenced agricultural productivity and food security. It is essential to study how crops respond to these climate factors and develop adaptive strategies in order to ensure a sustainable food supply.

In spite of growing awareness of the impacts of climate change on agriculture, there remains a critical need to understand the nuanced responses of crops to eCO2 levels, increased temperatures, higher ozone concentrations, and more frequent drought conditions. Current knowledge often lacks comprehensive insights into the interactive effects of these factors on crop growth, yield, grain quality, and the paddy diseases, insect pests and weeds. Moreover, there is a lack of new effective coping measures, including breeding, cultivation, and biocollaborative approaches.

To address this gap, this Research Topic aims to systematically investigate how various crops adapt to changing climatic conditions, focusing on the mechanisms underlying their responses. By elucidating these mechanisms and identifying effective adaptation strategies, the goal is to enhance agricultural resilience and ensure sustainable food supplies amidst ongoing climate shifts.

Research papers are welcomed on the following themes, but not limited to:

• Impact of eCO2 on Crop Performance: Investigate how eCO2 concentrations affect crop photosynthesis, growth, yield, and grain quality.

• Temperature Effects on Crop Development: Analyze the consequences of rising temperatures on crop phenology, yield, and nutritional value.

• Ozone Concentration Influence: Examine the role of increased atmospheric ozone levels on crop health, productivity, and stress resistance.

• Drought Stress and Water Management: Address the challenges posed by water scarcity and evaluate drought-resistant breeding and irrigation techniques.

• Interactive Effects of Multiple Climatic Factors: Study the combined impacts of eCO2, temperature, ozone, and water availability on crop systems.

• Adaptive Strategies and Mechanisms: Explore effective measures, including breeding, cultivation practices, and biological interventions, to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on agriculture.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Crop Responses and Adaptation Strategies Under Global Climate Change