Root restriction-induced limitation to photosynthesis in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) leaves

Root restriction often depresses photosynthetic capacity and the mechanism for this reduction, however, remains unclear. To identify the mechanism by which root restriction affects the photosynthetic characteristics, tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) seedlings were subjected to root restriction stress with or without supplemental aeration to the nutrient solution. With the development of the root restriction stress, CO2 assimilation rate was decreased only in confined plants without supplemental aeration. There were also significant decreases in leaf water potential, stomatal conductance (gs), intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci), and increases in the stomatal limitation (l) and the xylem sap ABA concentration. Meanwhile, the maximum carboxylation rate of Rubisco (Vcmax) and the capacity for ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate regeneration (Jmax) also decreased, followed by substantial reductions in the quantum yield of PSII electron transport (ΦPSII). Additionally, root restriction resulted in accumulation of carbohydrates in various plant tissues irrespective of aeration conditions. It is likely that root restriction-induced depression of photosynthesis was mimicked by water stress.