Reexamining the empirical relation between plant growth and leaf photosynthesis

• DOI: 10.1071/fp05310
• Publication Date: 2006-05-02T03:20:40Z
• Authors: Eric L. Kruger; John C. Volin
• Keywords: Specific leaf area; Relative growth rate; Ecophysiology

Technological advances during the past several decades have greatly enhanced our ability to measure leaf photosynthesis virtually anywhere and under any condition. Associated with resulting proliferation of gas-exchange data is a lingering uncertainty regarding importance such measurements when it comes explaining intrinsic causes plant growth variation. Accordingly, in this paper we rely on compilation address following questions: from both statistical mechanistic standpoints, how closely does correlate measures photosynthesis? Moreover, context, as an explanatory variable differ among light environments? Across wide array species environments, relative rate (RGR) was positively correlated daily integrals expressed per unit area (Aarea), mass (Amass), (Aplant). The amount RGR variation explained by these relationships increased 36% for former 93% latter. Notably, there close agreement between observed that estimated Aplant after adjustment theoretical costs tissue construction. Overall, based analysis response coefficients (GRCs), gross assimilation (GAR), photosynthesis-based estimate biomass gain area, about much did ratio (LMR) specific (SLA). Further GRCs indicated GAR increasing intensity. Clearly, considered combination other key determinants, appropriate gas exchange effectively capture fundamental role