Abstract: This study integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses to investigate the differential metabolites and gene expression profiles ofEriophyton wallichiiat varying altitudes, aiming to elucidate its adaptive mechanisms to the extreme cobble environment of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Key metabolites and genes associated withE.wallichii’s adaptation to high-altitude conditions were identified. Our results revealed that the total metabolite profiles ofE. wallichiiincluded secondary metabolites (e.g., flavonoids, phenylpropanoids), amino acids (e.g., tryptophan, tyrosine, phenylalanine), lipids (e.g., unsaturated fatty acids, glycerophospholipids, linolenic acid), and other compounds. Flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, and related pathways involved in high-altitude adaptation were notably enriched in the leaves of high-altitude populations. Accumulation of substances such as kaempferol-7-O-glucoside, kaempferol-7-neohesperidoside, Apigenin-7-caffeoylglucoside, and kaempferol-3-glucoside in the leaves was likely linked to the development of trichomes inE.wallichii.Additionally, genes related to glutathione and ascorbic acid synthesis were significantly enriched in the roots of high-altitude populations, playing a crucial role in the antioxidant defense system. This study offered valuable insights into the adaptive mechanisms ofE.wallichiiin high-altitude environments.

Key words: Eriophyton wallichii, transcriptomics and metabolomics, high altitude, adaptation, Qinghai-Tibet Plateau