›› 2018, Vol. 35 ›› Issue (4): 929-937.doi: 10.13866/j.azr.2018.04.22

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An overview of stomatal and non-stomatal limitations to photosynthesis of plants

Gao Guan-long1,Feng Qi2 ,Zhang Xiao-you2, Si Jian-hua2, Yu Teng-fei2   

  1. (1 Shanxi University, Taiyuan, 030006, Shanxi,China;2 Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, CAS, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu,China.)
  • Received:2017-10-27 Revised:2017-12-22 Online:2018-07-15 Published:2018-07-19

Abstract:

External stresses affect the plant growth and metabolism in a number of ways, especially the photosynthesis (Pn). As Pn is an important factor affecting productivity, the study on its mechanism is still a hot issue in the field of plant physiology and ecology. Pn, however, is mainly restricted by stomatal or non-stomatal factors, and it has not been determined yet. This paper mainly discussed the methods for calculating the stomatal and non-stomatal limit values (Ls and Ci (sub-stomatal CO2 concentration)/gs (the stomatal conductance)), stomatal and non-stomatal limitations under different stresses and the effects on Pn: (1) We summarized the methods for calculating the (relative) Ls and Ci /gs values, which could be the basis for judging the main restriction factors; (2) We classified the external stresses and summarized the achievements from the aspects of manual controlling conditions (water, salt-alkali and multi-factor stresses) and natural conditions of the previous studies; (3) We analyzed the impact ways of stomatal and non-stomatal factors on Pn. The features of the Ls and Ci /gs, values and the mechanisms of one species at different growth and development stages and in different habitats (hydrothermal, salty, nutrient, and artificial and natural conditions) were explored and discussed, and this will be the key trend and direction for researching.

Key words: plant leaves, photosynthesis, stomatal limitation, non-stomatal limitation, water stress, research summary