Modelling the impact of improved photosynthetic properties on crop performance in Europe

Using the GECROS model, we simulated effect of improvements in photosynthesis a range growth parameters, including yield, and on εc (the conversion efficiency absorbed solar energy to chemical biomass) εi interception or absorption by canopy) parameters Monteith crop equation, for wheat potato (which use C3 photosynthesis) maize uses C4 photosynthesis). In case crops, were via 20% increases Vcmax (carboxylation capacity Rubisco), Jmax (electron transport capacity), Sc/o (Rubisco specificity), κ2LL (efficiency converting incident light into electron transport) gm (mesophyll conductance), while crop, it was increase Vcmax, decrease gbs conductance that controls leak CO2 from bundle sheath cells leaves). The changes applied individually combination. responses modelled using climate data collected over 10-year period 66 sites around Europe. Improvements did result yield but with considerable variation between adjusted. greatest obtained (up an average 11% total plant biomass), these found across all Increases both have predominant light-use subsaturating irradiances. other produced smaller increases.