Maize (Zea mays L.) planted at higher density utilizes dynamic light more efficiently

Abstract

In nature, plants are exposed to a dynamic light environment. Fluctuations in light decreased the photosynthetic light utilization efficiency (PLUE) of leaves, and much more severely in C4 species than in C3 species. However, little is known about the plasticity of PLUE under dynamic light in C4 species. Present study focused on the influence of planting density to the photosynthesis under dynamic light in maize (Zea mays L.), a most important C4 crop. In addition, the molecular mechanism behind photosynthetic adaptation to planting density were also explored by quantitative proteomics analysis. Results revealed that as planting density increases, maize leaves receive less light that fluctuates more. The maize planted at high density (HD) improved the PLUE under dynamic light, especially in the middle and later growth stages. Quantitative proteomics analysis showed that the transfer of nitrogen from Rubisco to RuBP regeneration and C4 pathway related enzymes contributes to the photosynthetic adaptation to lower and more fluctuating light environment in HD maize. This study provides potential ways to further improve the light energy utilization efficiency of maize in HD.

Optimising plant form and function for controlled environment agriculture in space and on earth

“…These could include providing low or intermittent lighting or technologies such as photo-selective films which filter out certain wavelengths without loss of light intensity. 23,24 Improving the amount of edible plant material and the speed of plant growth would also improve productivity per unit area, effectively reducing energy consumption per unit of yield. These might be achieved by reducing root biomass and plant stature, employing fastflowering varieties, and using fast growing plants such as duckweed (discussed further in 'Ideal plant form for space' section).…”

Effect of Ready Mix Application of Herbicide on Weed Dynamics and Productivity of Maize in Lateritic Belt of West Bengal

“…Maize (Zea mays L.) can adapt different climatic conditions under various agroclimatic situations (Erenstein et al, 2022). Maize utilizes a highly efficient photosynthetic pathway called C4photosynthesis (Zheng et al, 2023). This mechanism enables maize plant to synthesis huge biomass resulting in higher yield potential.…”