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The photosynthetic capacity in 35 ferns and fern allies: Mesophyll CO2 diffusion as a key trait
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-20, 06:21 authored by Tosens, T, Nishida, K, Gago, J, Coopman, RE, Cabrera, HM, Marc Carriqui Alcover, Laanisto, L, Morales, L, Nadal, M, Rojas, R, Talts, E, Tomas, M, Hanba, Y, Niinemets, U, Flexas, J- Ferns and fern allies have low photosynthetic rates compared with seed plants. Their photosynthesis is thought to be limited principally by physical CO2 diffusion from the atmosphere to chloroplasts.
- The aim of this study was to understand the reasons for low photosynthesis in species of ferns and fern allies (Lycopodiopsida and Polypodiopsida). We performed a comprehensive assessment of the foliar gas‐exchange and mesophyll structural traits involved in photosynthetic function for 35 species of ferns and fern allies. Additionally, the leaf economics spectrum (the interrelationships between photosynthetic capacity and leaf/frond traits such as leaf dry mass per unit area or nitrogen content) was tested.
- Low mesophyll conductance to CO2 was the main cause for low photosynthesis in ferns and fern allies, which, in turn, was associated with thick cell walls and reduced chloroplast distribution towards intercellular mesophyll air spaces.
- Generally, the leaf economics spectrum in ferns follows a trend similar to that in seed plants. Nevertheless, ferns and allies had less nitrogen per unit DW than seed plants (i.e. the same slope but a different intercept) and lower photosynthesis rates per leaf mass area and per unit of nitrogen.
History
Publication title
New PhytologistVolume
209Issue
4Pagination
1576-1590ISSN
0028-646XDepartment/School
School of Natural SciencesPublisher
Blackwell Publishing LtdPlace of publication
9600 Garsington Rd, Oxford, England, Oxon, Ox4 2DgRights statement
Copyright 2015 the authors New Phytologist Copyright 2015 New Phytologist TrustRepository Status
- Restricted
