High Photosynthetic Efficiency in a Low-latitude Environment

Abstract

PLANT physiologists, agronomists and plant breeders over the years have been investigating the many aspects of dry matter production and the efficiency of utilization of solar energy with the view of maximum production. The factors affecting production may be subdivided broadly into genetic, edaphic and climatic factors. Climate, the most difficult to modify, frequently limits the production potential of an area. Little has been published on the maximum growth rate of individual species in different environments together with the relevant radiation values necessary to estimate photosynthetic efficiency. Also, data of this type have been obtained mainly in the middle to high latitudes in Europe and the United States.