Abstract
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), a high-quality perennial legume forage, is pivotal in global animal husbandry and ecological systems. However, its growth and production are threatened by various abiotic stresses, including drought, salinity, low temperatures, and heavy metal toxicity. This review summarizes recent research on the molecular mechanisms underlying alfalfa's responses to these environmental adversities. It provides a theoretical foundation for enhancing the stress resistance of alfalfa, offering a valuable reference for breeding high-quality, stress-resistant alfalfa varieties.