Growth analysis and photosynthetic rates in three selected grass species in theburkea‐eragrostissavanna

Three major grass species of the Nylsvley study site were studied: Eragrostis pallens. Digitaria eriantha and Panicum maximum. Growth analysis for the peak growth season was carried out with respect to phytomass, biomass and necromass. The results of this analysis were correlated to photosynthetic activity, measured using infra‐red gas analysis and labelled carbon dioxide leaf exposures. Detailed studies of driving force variables, such as light, temperature, soil moisture and leaf water potential were carried out in order to determine their effects on stomatal resistance. From this it is anticipated that it will be possible to estimate the increase in biomass and the factors determining it, throughout the growing season.