Atmospheric pollution, an inescapable and worsening problem, presents a significant threat to global food security. This study investigates the differential responses of 12 potato cultivars (Solanum tuberosum L.) to the complex air pollution conditions of Central Punjab during a field trial conducted in the January–February smog season in Punjab. The objective was to identify physiological and biochemical traits that confer tolerance to this environmental stress. A multi-trait analysis was conducted, measuring key parameters including net photosynthetic rate, chlorophyll content (SPAD), chlorophyll fluorescence (Fv/Fm), relative water content (RWC), membrane stability index (MSI), and the activity of antioxidant enzymes. The results reveal significant variation in cultivar performance. ‘Desiree’ and ‘Hermes’ exhibited superior tolerance, maintaining high photosynthetic efficiency, cellular membrane integrity, and elevated antioxidant enzyme activity compared to the sensitive cultivars. Notably, sensitive cultivars such as ‘Lady Rosetta’ and ‘Shepody’ showed marked reductions in key physiological functions, a high degree of membrane damage as indicated by elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and a significant reduction in tuber yield. The findings demonstrate a strong correlation between in-season physiological and biochemical resilience and final yield performance, as measured by harvest index (HI) and tuber dry matter. This study provides a comprehensive framework for identifying smog-tolerant potato genotypes based on a multi-trait phenotype, offering a practical approach for future breeding programs aimed at developing resilient crops for pollution-affected agricultural environments.
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