Photosynthesis and Respiration by the Flag Leaf and Components of the Ear During Grain Development In Wheat

Rates of photosynthesis and dark respiration of the ears and flag leaves of three varieties of wheat grown at 21 DC under a constant light intensity of 3200 f.c. were measured by infrared gas analysis twice weekly throughout the period of grain development. Measurements were made on both the intact ears and the separated grains and ear structures, in air and in a mixture of nitrogen plus 320 p.p.m. C02. Dry weights of the grains, ears, and main stems were also determined.