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Light signalling shapes plant–plant interactions in dense canopies
Author(s) -
Huber Martina,
Nieuwendijk Nicole M.,
Pantazopoulou Chrysoula K.,
Pierik Ronald
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
plant, cell and environment
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.646
H-Index - 200
eISSN - 1365-3040
pISSN - 0140-7791
DOI - 10.1111/pce.13912
Subject(s) - shade avoidance , cryptochrome , phytochrome , phototropin , biology , context (archaeology) , phototropism , ecology , signalling , botany , neuroscience , microbiology and biotechnology , arabidopsis , blue light , circadian clock , red light , paleontology , biochemistry , physics , optics , gene , mutant , circadian rhythm
Plants growing at high densities interact via a multitude of pathways. Here, we provide an overview of mechanisms and functional consequences of plant architectural responses initiated by light cues that occur in dense vegetation. We will review the current state of knowledge about shade avoidance, as well as its possible applications. On an individual level, plants perceive neighbour‐associated changes in light quality and quantity mainly with phytochromes for red and far‐red light and cryptochromes and phototropins for blue light. Downstream of these photoreceptors, elaborate signalling and integration takes place with the PHYTOCHROME INTERACTING FACTORS , several hormones and other regulators. This signalling leads to the shade avoidance responses, consisting of hyponasty, stem and petiole elongation, apical dominance and life cycle adjustments. Architectural changes of the individual plant have consequences for the plant community, affecting canopy structure, species composition and population fitness. In this context, we highlight the ecological, evolutionary and agricultural importance of shade avoidance.