Photosynthesis, chlorophyll content and ribulose diphosphate carboxylase activity in relation to yield in wheat genotypes

Abstract

Summary Photosynthetic rates, chlorophyll content and activity of ribulose 1,5-diphosphate carboxylase (RuDPC) were determined for 18 genotypes of wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) in pot culture. Measurements were made at various growth stages. Correlation studies between physiological characteristics and seed yield were made at each stage separately. Genotypic variations were observed at different growth and developmental stages in photosynthetic rates (1·8–2·7-fold), chlorophyll contents (1·2-fold) and enzyme activities (2-fold). Chlorophyll content and enzymic activity increased in plant leaves with advancing age while apparent rates of photosynthesis decreased. RuDPC activity in flag leaf at anthesis showed significant positive correlation with grain yield (r = 0·55). Other attributes did not show significant association with grain yield.