Non-foliar photosynthesis and its contribution to the overall carbon balance of plants

Guido Aschan; Hardy Pfanz

doi:10.14720/abs.46.2.16658

Authors

Guido Aschan Institute of Applied Botany, University of Duisburg Essen
Hardy Pfanz Institute of Applied Botany, University of Duisburg, Essen, Germany

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14720/abs.46.2.16658

Keywords:

floral photosynthesis, aerial roots, orchids, Helleborus, chlorophyll fluorescens

Abstract

In addition to the green leaves, commonly considered as the main sources of photosynthate production, higher plants can potentially use nearly all vegetative and reproductive structures to perform photosynthetic CO₂ assimilation. Green leaves, stems and green sterile flower organs, optimized for light harvesting and photosynthetic performance, are characterized by net photosynthetic assimilation utilizing mainly the atmospheric carbon dioxide. In contrast, chlorophyll-containing bark and wood tissue, most fruit, root and fertile flower organs are primary sub ordinated to non-photosynthetic functions, but typically perform an effective internal CO₂ recycling using the respiratory released CO₂. Non-foliar photosynthesis, either manifested as positive net photosynthesis or internal CO₂ refixation is regarded as an important strategy of additional carbon acquisition. The main strategies of additional carbon acquisition by non-foliar chlorophyllous organs are illustrated, presenting selected examples developed in reproductive as well as in vegetative plant structures.

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