UOE/2017/033/NT

The department of Geography conducts research into the responses of plant photosynthesis and stomatal conductance responses to changes in climate. The most important photosynthetic parameters, and thus the ones we need to understand, are the maximum rates of carboxylation (Vcmax) and electron transport (Jmax). To measure Vcmax and Jmax, accurate estimates of mesophyll conductance (gm) are required. Until very recently, gm could not be measured accurately in the field and we were forced to use estimates that are known to be inadequate for water-stressed ecosystems. Accurate measurements of gm are the key that will advance our knowledge of competing photosynthetic survival strategies of trees…