Cell wall thickness constrains photosynthesis of coexisting species in a subtropical plantation by reducing mesophyll conductance and maximum carboxylation rate.

ABSTRACT: The interspecific variation in the net photosynthetic rate (Anet) reflects coordination and trade-offs between biophysical and biochemical processes, yet the underlying morphophysiological mechanisms remain poorly understood. To address this, we quantified photosynthetic parameters as well as morphological, anatomical and nutrient traits of 12 coexisting needle and broadleaf species within a subtropical coniferous plantation of the East Asian monsoon region. Across species, Anet is primarily constrained by stomatal conductance (gs), secondarily by maximum carboxylation rate (Vcmax) and minimally by mesophyll conductance (gm). A negative correlation between gs/Anet and gm/Anet suggests that increases in gm partially compensate for stomatal limitations on Anet, while the negative correlation

SUBMITTER: Liao M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12363393 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature