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Abstract. In this review we relate the physiological significance of C 4 photosynthesis to plant performance in nature. We begin with an examination of the physiological consequences of the C 4 pathway on photosynthesis, then discuss the ecophysiological performance of C 4 plants in contrasting environments. We then compare the performance of C 3 and C 4 plants when they occur together in similar habitats, and finally discuss the distribution of C 4 photosynthesis with respect to the physical environment, phylogeny, and life form.
Pearcy et al. (Sun,) studied this question.