Gas Exchange Properties of Jointed Goatgrass (Aegilops cylindrica)

Net (apparent) photosynthesis rate (Pn) of jointed goatgrass (Aegilops cylindricaHost # AEGCY) leaves in the greenhouse became light saturated at a photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) of about 1000 μE·m–1-2·s–1with a maximum Pn of 27 mg CO2·dm–2·h–1. Diffusive resistance to water vapor (rl) of adaxial leaf surfaces was 43% that of abaxial surfaces, in part, because stomatal density was 50% greater on adaxial leaf surfaces than on abaxial surfaces. Dark respiration rate (Rd) was 1.6 mg CO2·dm−2·h−1. Light compensation point (CPl) was 21 μE·m−2·s−1and CO2compensation point (CPc) was 32 ppmv. In the field, where light intensity and temperature were greater than in the greenhouse, leaves became light saturated for Pn at a higher intensity, and Rd and CPl were three times greater than in the greenhouse. Pn and Rd of spikes at anthesis were at least 30% less and 200% greater, respectively, than the values for leaves.