We take an integrative approach to synthesize the ecology, physiology, and anatomy of plants in a comparative framework. We identify the physiological and structural traits that are important to plant success, including the ability to collect solar energy, perform photosynthesis, and distribute sugars throughout the plant. We compare these characteristics among plant species with contrasting growth patterns and acclimation strategies. Most recently, we have identified structural features of the foliar phloem that are important in setting the maximal rate of photosynthesis that leaves of different species can exhibit. We are taking a similar approach to maximizing photosynthetic efficiency and productivity in microalgae for the efficient generation of energy-rich molecules that can be used in the synthesis of biofuels and other high value chemicals.
keywords
Photosynthesis, Photosynthetic Efficiency, Photosynthetic Capacity, Photosynthetic Adaptation, Photosynthetic Acclimation, Regulation of Photosynthesis, Photosynthesis and the Environment, Foliar Vasculature and Photosynthesis, Leaf Structure and Photosynthesis, Sugar Export and Photosynthesis, Phloem Structure and Photosynthesis, Tracheary Elements and Photosynthesis, Algal Photosynthesis
