Question

Even though a very few cells in a C₄ plant carry out the biosynthetic – Calvin pathway, yet they are highly productive. Can you discuss why?

Answer 1

1. Given that a plant can photosynthesise through the C₄ cycle even in the presence of extremely low CO₂ concentrations (up to 10 parts per million), the partial closure of stomata brought on by xeric circumstances would not significantly affect.
2. Therefore, the plants can adapt to grow at low water content, high temperatures, and bright light intensities.
3. These plants, which thrive in arid tropical and subtropical climes, are particularly well-suited to this cycle. Moreover, these plants do not photorespirate, which keeps the photosynthetic rate higher.
4. It is evident that the C₄ cycle and photorespiration are products of evolution, or at least one of the factors contributing to plants' ability to adapt to various conditions.
5. About twice as much dry matter is produced by C₄ plants as by C₃ plants when solar energy is converted to plant energy.