Effect of light intensity on proton extrusion by roots of intact maize plants

Shading of maize plants (Zea mays L. cv. Blizzard) reduced net H+ extrusion by roots and increased K+ release, whereas there was no significant effect on anion efflux in deionized water. With lower light intensity the concentrations of carbohydrates in the roots decreased, but ATP levels and energy charge remained unchanged. Also, shading raised the tissue pH of roots and made the cytoplasmic pH of root cells drop. There was a significant influence of light intensity on H+ uptake by roots from an acidified test solution and CCCP (carbonylcyanide‐3‐chlorophenylhydrazone)‐in‐duced H+ uptake was modified by shading. It is concluded that low light intensity does not limit active H+ release by plasmalemma ATPase activity in the root cells, but that a reduced carbohydrate supply brings about a change in biochemical reactions which alter the membrane permeability for protons. An increased passive reflux of H+ into the cells rather than a reduced H+ ATPase activity explains the decrease of net H+ release by roots of intact maize plants under low light intensity.