We report the identification of a full-length cDNA clone encoding cytosolic glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH, EC 1.2.1.12) in the desiccation-tolerant plant Craterostigma plantagineum. The DNA sequence of the cDNA clone is homologous to cytosolic GAPDH cDNAs from other higher plants. The GAPDH transcript increases rapidly in abundance during dehydration or abscisic acid (ABA) treatment. The increase in mRNA levels is directly correlated with higher protein and enzyme levels. These results imply that enhanced rates of glycolysis are one of the immediate cellular responses to water deficit. This may be a mechanism by which the plant cell prepares for a demand of ATP and NADH₂ during recovery.