Water-saving and drought-resistant rice (WDR) showed higher water productivity than paddy rice under water-saving irrigation.
WDR had better root morpho-physiological performance than paddy rice, such as greater root length density and active absorption area.
WDR could maintain a higher root activity during soil-drying and more recovery functions during re-watering.
The improved root traits in WDR benefits shoot physiological processes, leading to higher grain yield and water productivity.