Mesophyll conductance and accurate photosynthetic carbon gain calculations

Abstract

Mesophyll conductance (gm) is now known to be an important limiting factor of photosynthetic resource use efficiency in C3 plants, with significant implications for crop improvement. Non-leaf green organs of plants only add to the complexity, but are another crucial part of the equation. Han and co-authors (2018) examined cotton bracts, and provide comprehensive analysis of limitations to photosynthesis and underlying structural correlates, including mesophyll anatomical traits. The work provides an object lesson in the level of detail essential for accurate photosynthetic carbon gain estimations.