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Abstract

As Vachellia gerrardii is a vital drought-tolerant species providing essential ecological benefits in arid environments, it is frequently threatened by Paropta paradoxus infestations, which necessitate a deeper understanding of its physiological and soil-related impacts. To investigate these effects, a study was conducted in Wadi Huraymila on October 9, 2023, utilizing advanced techniques such as GC-MS and FTIR spectroscopy. The results revealed a significant correlation between soil properties and susceptibility, as infected trees were primarily found in clay soils (P=0.019). Furthermore, soil dynamics were notably altered, with infected sites showing a 36.23% reduction in organic carbon (P=0.041), recorded at 0.44% compared to 0.69% in uninfected sites. Regarding physiological health, the infestation caused a significant depletion in chlorophyll a and b levels (P=0.041 and P=0.006, respectively), leading to a 16.17% reduction in total chlorophyll (P=0.010). This impairment was accompanied by a massive surge in oxidative stress, as Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels increased by a staggering 528.01% (P=0.000), indicating severe lipid peroxidation. Simultaneously, the trees mobilized a defensive metabolic shift, characterized by a 600.44% increase in free amino acids and the synthesis of protective compounds like dl-alpha-tocopherol. In conclusion, P. paradoxus profoundly disrupts the secondary metabolism and physiological integrity of V. gerrardii. Therefore, these insights, particularly the use of MDA as a biomarker, should be integrated into conservation strategies to mitigate ecological losses in arid regions.

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