Summary
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1.
The CO2 absorption method of measuring apparent photosynthesis was found to be well adapted to use with potato leaves. The major problems encountered were the accurate measurement of air volume in each unit and the prevention of excessive temperature build-up in the leaf chambers.
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2.
The general level of CO2 absorption by potato leaves was increased following effective rains.
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3.
Wilting of leaves caused a decrease in the rate of CO2 absorption.
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4.
Maximum assimilation rates of Triumph leaves were found between the temperatures of 80 and 90° F. under field conditions.
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5.
Highest assimilation rates were usually recorded between 8:00 and 10:00 a.m., followed by a gradual decline throughout the remainder of the day.
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6.
Large natural variations in rate of CO2 absorption were found with paired leaves on the same and different potato plants.
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7.
Leaves located near the base of potato plants were found to absorb CO2 only two-thirds as rapidly as the 3rd or 4th leaves below the terminal leaf cluster.
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8.
In comparable tests with four varieties, Triumph had the lowest rate of CO2 absorption per unit area of leaf surface.
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The author is indebted to Dr. H. O. Werner for counsel in the planning and conduct of this investigation, and to Dr. Rufus Moore and Mr. Roscoe Abbott for assistance in building the apparatus and developing the procedures.
Published with the authorization of the Director as Journal Paper No. 529 of the Nebraska Agricultural Experiment Station, Lincoln, Nebraska.
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Chapman, H.W. Absorption of CO2 by leaves of the potato. American Potato Journal 28, 602–615 (1951). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02851254
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02851254