Genotypic variation in intrinsic transpiration efficiency correlates with sugarcane yield under rainfed and irrigated field conditions.

Intrinsic transpiration efficiency ( TE), the ratio of photosynthesis (A) to stomatal conductance (g ), is considered a useful trait for improving productivity; however, higher TE with high A is more desirable than that with low g . This study dissects TE of 20 sugarcane genotypes to understand its relationship with total dry matter (TDM) and cane yield (TCH) under irrigated and rainfed conditions. Water stress reduced mean A and g by 56 and 61%, and mean TDM and TCH by 55 and 59%, respectively; however, genotype × irrigation treatment interaction was smaller than genotype variance.

Changes in photosynthesis and carbohydrate metabolism in sugarcane during the development of Yellow Canopy Syndrome.

Photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, electron transport, internal CO2 and sugar levels were determined in the leaves of Yellow Canopy Syndrome (YCS) symptomatic sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) plants. Two varieties from two different geographic regions in Australia, KQ228 and Q200 were used.

Genetic variation in transpiration efficiency and relationships between whole plant and leaf gas exchange measurements in Saccharum spp. and related germplasm.

Fifty-one genotypes of sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) or closely related germplasm were evaluated in a pot experiment to examine genetic variation in transpiration efficiency. Significant variation in whole plant transpiration efficiency was observed, with the difference between lowest and highest genotypes being about 40% of the mean.