Greenhouse and field trials were conducted during 1974–75 to determine the effects of artificial and insect defoliation on soybean net photosynthesis. Net carbon exchange rates were measured by using an excised-leaflet technique. Cork-borer, paper-punch, and along-the-midrib leaflet bisections adequately simulated defoliation of soybean leaflets by Plathypena scabra (F.) and Cynthia cardui (L.). Across-the-midrib leaflet bisections increased net photosynthesis and, thus, did not adequately simulate defoliation by these insects. Net carbon exchange rate was significantly reduced 12 h postdefoliation but was not significantly different from the check 24 h postdefoliation.
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Poston et al. (1976) studied this question.