Growth before photosynthesis: How trees regulate their water balance

Scientists are shooting plants with lasers to unravel mysteries of how they function: 'We previously had basically no access to this measurement'

Researchers at the Yale School of the Environment have developed a laser-based method to study how plants adjust their internal functions according to changing environmental stimuli such as temperature and sunlight. Plants have evolved the ability to open or close their microscopic pores, called stomata, in response to the pressure changes in the world around them over millions of years.  They can open them to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmo…

Growth before photosynthesis: How trees regulate their water balance

Plants have small pores on the underside of their leaves, known as stomata. When the sun rises, these pores open and the plants absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere, which they need, in addition to sunlight and water, for photosynthesis. At the same time, water evaporates through the open stomata; for a tree, this may be several hundred liters per day.

Environmental News Network - Growth Before Photosynthesis: How Trees Regulate Their Water Balance

A global perspective on environmental issues. Our mission is to inform, educate, enable and create a platform for global environmental action.

Growth Before Photosynthesis: How Trees Regulate Their Water Balance

In order for trees to grow, they need to control their water balance meticulously.

Growth before photosynthesis: how trees regulate their water balance