Unsaturation of vapour pressure inside leaves: fundamental, but unknown (Old ID 21447)
Role
Principal Investigator
Description
This project will determine when and to what extent the air inside leaves becomes unsaturated with water vapour. All current interpretation and modelling of leaf gas exchange assumes saturation under all circumstances. Compelling evidence has been obtained suggesting this is not true under moderate air vapour pressure deficits. A novel technique will be employed to assess the water vapour concentration of the air inside leaves based on stable isotope analysis of carbon dioxide and water vapour exchanged between leaves and air. The project will provide fundamental knowledge about how stomata regulate photosynthesis and water use, with significant implications for modelling vegetation function and for improving the performance of crop plants.
Date
30 Mar 2015 - 29 Mar 2018
Project Type
GRANT
Keywords
leaf gas exchange;Stomata;Stable Isotopes
Funding Body
Australian Research Council
Amount
511100
Project Team
N/A