Metabolomic Insights into the Allelopathic Effects of (Mill.) Swingle Volatile Organic Compounds on the Germination Process of (L.).

This study explores the allelopathic effects of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by the invasive species (Mill.) Swingle on the seed germination of . is known for releasing allelopathic VOCs that suppress the growth of neighbouring plants, contributing to its invasive potential. To examine these effects, we exposed seeds to varying concentrations of VOCs, assessing germination rates and metabolic changes through untargeted metabolomics. Our findings revealed that VOCs from significantly inhibited the germination speed and overall germination rates of in a dose-dependent manner. Metabolomic profiling showed disruptions in energy and amino acid metabolism pathways, specifically involving delayed breakdown of starch and key metabolites, indicating inhibition of critical metabolic processes during early germination stages. This metabolic delay likely impairs 's establishment and competitiveness, enhancing 's ecological dominance. The results underscore the potential of VOC-based allelopathy as a mechanism of plant invasion, offering insights into the role of VOCs in interspecies plant competition and ecosystem dynamics.