Photorespiration studies in Cycas circinalis L. and Cycas beddomei Dyer.

Photosynthetic carboxylating enzymes and the effects of light and temperature on (14)CO2 efflux in two species of gymnosperm leaves were studied. The activity of RuBP carboxylase was high and that of PEP carboxylase was very low when compared to C4 plants. The CO2 compensation point was high. (14)CO2 efflux was greater in light than in darkness and the ratio (L/D) increased with increase in temperature and light intensity. The inhibitors of glycolate metabolism showed decreased (14)CO2 evolution in light while dark respiration was unaffected. It is concluded that both Cycas circinalis, L. and Cycas beddomei Dyer are C3 plants.