ISSN:
1365-3040
Source:
Blackwell Publishing Journal Backfiles 1879-2005
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract Analysis of nodule inputs via the phloem and outputs via the xylem leads to the conclusion that water fluxes along those conduits alone would give a xylem sap osmolality in excess of that of sieve tubes and would thus plasmolyse the latter unless N2 fixation involved a very high respiratory consumption of organic C entering in the phloem, or there is significant water influx from soil through the nodule surface. Whether N2 fixation by attached nodules not in contact with an external water supply is energetically inefficient (and hence also, at a whole plant level, inefficient in terms of water-use) is as yet untested. However, the hypothesis which we prefer involves the shortfall in water entry via the phloem being made up the parenchymatic water flux from the root to the nodule.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-3040.1989.tb01628.x
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