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The influence of reduced photorespiration on long‐term growth and development of wheat
Author(s) -
Gerbaud Alain,
André Marcel,
Gaudillère JeanPierre,
Daguenet Alain
Publication year - 1988
Publication title -
physiologia plantarum
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.351
H-Index - 146
eISSN - 1399-3054
pISSN - 0031-9317
DOI - 10.1111/j.1399-3054.1988.tb05429.x
Subject(s) - photorespiration , photosynthesis , biology , rubisco , sugar , botany , crop , horticulture , agronomy , biochemistry
The long‐term role of photorespiration was investigated by comparing growth, development, gas exchange characteristics and mineral nutrition of a wheat crop ( Triticum aestivum L. cv. Courtot) cultivated in a culture chamber during a life cycle, either in 4% O 2 or in normal O 2 Low O 2 pressure reduced photorespiration, but CO 2 was controlled so that net photosynthesis remained the same as in the control crop. The growth and development of the low O 2 crop was slowed down. Ear appearance was 16 days late, but the rate of tillering was the same as in the control and was maintained longer so that the final number of tillers was doubled. Pigment, ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase (EC 4.1.1.39) and soluble sugar contents were similar. The response of photosynthesis to CO 2 and O 2 was not appreciably changed by the low O 2 treatment. There was almost no seed formation, and the senescence of the leaves was delayed. It appears that in non‐stress conditions most of the photorespiration can be suppressed without damage to the photosynthetic apparatus. Retardation of development and inhibition of reproduction are likely due to other effects of O 2 .