Record Display for the EPA National Library Catalog

RECORD NUMBER: 660 OF 711

Main Title Water Use Efficiency in Plant Growth and Ambient Carbon Dioxide Level.
Author Van Brave, C. H. M. ;
CORP Author Texas A and M Univ., College Station. Water Resources Inst.
Year Published 1972
Report Number TR-42; OWRR-A-013-TEX; 12391,; A-013-TEX(1)
Stock Number PB-211 281
Additional Subjects ( Plant growth ; Carbon dioxide) ; ( Transpiration ; Plant growth) ; ( Carbon dioxide ; Transpiration) ; Plant physiology ; Water conservation ; Mathematical models ; Computer programs ; Photosynthesis ; Humidity ;
Holdings
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Status
NTIS  PB-211 281 Some EPA libraries have a fiche copy filed under the call number shown. 07/26/2022
Collation 115p
Abstract
The validity and practical implications are discussed of the proposition that CO2 enrichment of the leaf environment enhances plant growth and, simultaneously, decreases plant water use. A theoretical analysis of the water and carbon dioxide balance of plant leaves was made in the form of a computer program based upon known physiological facts. It predicts significant increases in water use efficiency by plants as CO2 is enriched, the size of the increase depending upon the external conditions. Experimental tests were conducted in an environmental simulator with stands of soybean, pepper and southern pea plants. The predictions of the model were substantially verified, with CO2 concentrations ranging from normal to six-fold normal. Although CO2 is obviously an ideal antitranspirant, the efficacy of its release in open stands is doubtful in view of plausible economic factors. But, in enclosures this would be a different matter, and for such situations a scientific basis is given for engineering and systems analysis.