Emerging roles for carbonic anhydrase in mesophyll conductance and photosynthesis

Carbonic anhydrase (CA) is an abundant protein in most photosynthesizing organisms and higher plants. This review paper considers the physiological importance of the more abundant CA isoforms in photosynthesis, through their effects on CO₂ diffusion and other processes in photosynthetic organisms. In plants, CA has multiple isoforms in three different families (α, β and γ) and is mainly known to catalyze the CO₂↔HCO3- equilibrium. This reversible conversion has a clear role in photosynthesis, primarily through sustaining the CO₂ concentration at the site of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco). Despite showing the same major reaction mechanism, the three main CA families are evolutionarily distinct. For different CA isoforms, cellular localization and total gene expression as a function of developmental stage are predicted to determine the role of each family in relation to the net assimilation rate. Reaction-diffusion modeling and observational evidence support a role for CA activity in reducing resistance to CO₂ diffusion inside mesophyll cells by facilitating CO₂ transfer in both gas and liquid phases. In addition, physical and/or biochemical interactions between CAs and other membrane-bound compartments, for example aquaporins, are suggested to trigger a CO₂ -sensing response by stomatal movement. In response to environmental stresses, changes in the expression level of CAs and/or stimulated deactivation of CAs may correspond with lower photosynthetic capacity. We suggest that further studies should focus on the dynamics of the relationship between the activity of CAs (with different subcellular localization, abundance and gene expression) and limitations due to CO₂ diffusivity through the mesophyll and supply of CO₂ to photosynthetic reactions.

A role for SPEECHLESS in the integration of leaf stomatal patterning with the growth vs disease trade-off in poplar

Occurrence of stomata on both leaf surfaces (amphistomaty) promotes higher stomatal conductance and photosynthesis while simultaneously increasing exposure to potential disease agents in black cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa). A genome-wide association study (GWAS) with 2.2M single nucleotide polymorphisms generated through whole-genome sequencing found 280 loci associated with variation in adaxial stomatal traits, implicating genes regulating stomatal development and behavior. Strikingly, numerous loci regulating plant growth and response to biotic and abiotic stresses were also identified. The most significant locus was a poplar homologue of SPEECHLESS (PtSPCH1). Individuals possessing PtSPCH1 alleles associated with greater adaxial stomatal density originated primarily from environments with shorter growing seasons (e.g. northern latitudes, high elevations) or with less precipitation. PtSPCH1 was expressed in developing leaves but not developing stem xylem. In developing leaves, RNA sequencing showed patterns of coordinated expression between PtSPCH1 and other GWAS-identified genes. The breadth of our GWAS results suggests that the evolution of amphistomaty is part of a larger, complex response in plants. Suites of genes underpin this response, retrieved through genetic association to adaxial stomata, and show coordinated expression during development. We propose that the occurrence of amphistomaty in P. trichocarpa involves PtSPCH1 and reflects selection for supporting rapid growth over investment in immunity.

Author Correction: Sexual homomorphism in dioecious trees: extensive tests fail to detect sexual dimorphism in Populus

A correction to this article has been published and is linked from the HTML and PDF versions of this paper. The error has been fixed in the paper.

Ecological genomics of variation in bud-break phenology and mechanisms of response to climate warming in Populus trichocarpa

Spring bud-break phenology is a critical adaptive feature common to temperate perennial woody plants. Understanding the molecular underpinnings of variation in bud-break is important for elucidating adaptive evolution and predicting outcomes relating to climate change. Field and controlled growth chamber tests were used to assess population-wide patterns in bud-break from wild-sourced black cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa) genotypes. We conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) with single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) derived from whole genome sequencing to test for loci underlying variation in bud-break. Bud-break had a quadratic relationship with latitude, where southern- and northern-most provenances generally broke bud earlier than those from central parts of the species' range. Reduced winter chilling increased population-wide variation in bud-break, whereas greater chilling decreased variation. GWAS uncovered 16 loci associated with bud-break. Phenotypic changes connected with allelic variation were replicated in an independent set of P. trichocarpa trees. Despite phenotypic similarities, genetic profiles between southern- and northern-most genotypes were dissimilar based on our GWAS-identified SNPs. We propose that the GWAS-identified loci underpin the geographical pattern in P. trichocarpa and that variation in bud-break reflects different selection for winter chilling and heat sum accumulation, both of which can be affected by climate warming.

Integrating morphological characters, molecular markers, and distribution patterns to assess the identity of Blepharis species from Jordan

BACKGROUND

Blepharis constitutes an important part of the vegetation of the Jordanian arid and semi-arid regions, yet whether one or more species of this genus occurs in the Jordanian area is uncertain. We addressed this question by assessing morphological characters and testing Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) markers from three populations of Blepharis: two northern (lower slopes of Kufranjah valley and the Dead Sea region) and one southern (Wadi al Yutm).

RESULTS

Shoots from randomly chosen Blepharis plants were harvested from each of the three populations for morphological and molecular analyses. In the northern populations, spikes were lax and bract width was significantly shorter than length of the longest lateral spine compared to the southern population. A multivariate linear discriminant analysis distinguished the northern populations from the southern one by internode length, bract width, longest lateral spine length, and bract width to spine length ratio. The ISSR analysis revealed that 44 markers across eight primers were polymorphic with major allele frequency of 83.6% and an average of 5.5 polymorphic markers per primer. The genetic resemblance among individuals ranged from 0.27 to 0.96. The three Blepharis populations were accordingly clustered into two distinct groups, similar to the analysis of morphological differences and corresponding with the "northern" and "southern" population designations.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results strongly indicate the occurrence of two discrete Blepharis species in Jordan and reject the hypothesis that the genus is represented by only one species. We propose that the Blepharis species in Jordan are B. attenutata Napper (represented by the northern populations) and B. ciliaris (L.) B. L. Burtt (represented by the southern population). These findings are important for informing and revising floristic work within the region and an updated key has been included in our findings.

C4 photosynthesis and transition of Kranz anatomy in cotyledons and leaves of Tetraena simplex

PREMISE OF THE STUDY

Tetraena simplex is an independently evolved C₄ species in the Zygophylloideae (Zygophyllaceae) and a characteristic forb of saline flats in hot and sandy desert habitats. During early ontogeny, the species had a morphological shift from planar cotyledons (dorsiventral symmetry) to terete, succulent leaves (radial symmetry). We tested whether this shift had a corresponding change in internal Kranz anatomy and tissue patterning.

METHODS

For a comprehensive characterization of C₄ photosynthesis across early ontogeny in T. simplex, structural and ultrastructural anatomical properties and localization patterns, activities, and immunoblotting of key C₄ photosynthetic enzymes were compared in mesophyll and bundle sheath tissues in cotyledons and leaves.

KEY RESULTS

Cotyledons and leaves possessed different types of Kranz anatomy (atriplicoid type and a "Tetraena" variant of the kochioid type, respectively), reflecting the change in leaf morphology. In bundle sheath cells, key differences in ultrastructural features included increased organelle numbers and chloroplast thylakoid stacking. C₄ enzymes had strict tissue-specific localization patterns within bundle sheath and mesophyll cells in both cotyledons and leaves. The decarboxylase NAD-ME maintained the highest activity, increasing from cotyledons to leaves. This classified T. simplex as fully C₄ across ontogeny and a strictly NAD-ME biochemical subtype.

CONCLUSIONS

Tetraena simplex cotyledons and leaves showed differences in Kranz type, with associated progression in ultrastructural features, and differing activities/expression levels of C₄ enzymes. Furthermore, leaves characterized a new "Tetraena" variation of the kochioid Kranz anatomy.

Sexual homomorphism in dioecious trees: extensive tests fail to detect sexual dimorphism in Populus †

The evolution of sexual dimorphism and expansion of sex chromosomes are both driven through sexual conflict, arising from differing fitness optima between males and females. Here, we pair work in poplar (Populus) describing one of the smallest sex-determining regions known thus far in complex eukaryotes (~100 kbp) with comprehensive tests for sexual dimorphism using >1300 individuals from two Populus species and assessing 96 non-reproductive functional traits. Against expectation, we found sexual homomorphism (no non-reproductive trait differences between the sexes), suggesting that gender is functionally neutral with respect to non-reproductive features that affect plant survival and fitness. Combined with a small sex-determining region, we infer that sexual conflict may be effectively stymied or non-existent within these taxa. Both sexual homomorphism and the small sex-determining region occur against a background of strong environmental selection and local adaptation in Populus. This presents a powerful hypothesis for the evolution of dioecious species. Here, we suggest that environmental selection may be sufficient to suppress and stymy sexual conflict if it acts orthogonal to sexual selection, thereby placing limitations on the evolution of sexual dimorphism and genomic expansion of sex chromosomes.

Evolutionary Quantitative Genomics of Populus trichocarpa

Forest trees generally show high levels of local adaptation and efforts focusing on understanding adaptation to climate will be crucial for species survival and management. Here, we address fundamental questions regarding the molecular basis of adaptation in undomesticated forest tree populations to past climatic environments by employing an integrative quantitative genetics and landscape genomics approach. Using this comprehensive approach, we studied the molecular basis of climate adaptation in 433 Populus trichocarpa (black cottonwood) genotypes originating across western North America. Variation in 74 field-assessed traits (growth, ecophysiology, phenology, leaf stomata, wood, and disease resistance) was investigated for signatures of selection (comparing Q_ST -F_ST) using clustering of individuals by climate of origin (temperature and precipitation). 29,354 SNPs were investigated employing three different outlier detection methods and marker-inferred relatedness was estimated to obtain the narrow-sense estimate of population differentiation in wild populations. In addition, we compared our results with previously assessed selection of candidate SNPs using the 25 topographical units (drainages) across the P. trichocarpa sampling range as population groupings. Narrow-sense Q_ST for 53% of distinct field traits was significantly divergent from expectations of neutrality (indicating adaptive trait variation); 2,855 SNPs showed signals of diversifying selection and of these, 118 SNPs (within 81 genes) were associated with adaptive traits (based on significant Q_ST). Many SNPs were putatively pleiotropic for functionally uncorrelated adaptive traits, such as autumn phenology, height, and disease resistance. Evolutionary quantitative genomics in P. trichocarpa provides an enhanced understanding regarding the molecular basis of climate-driven selection in forest trees and we highlight that important loci underlying adaptive trait variation also show relationship to climate of origin. We consider our approach the most comprehensive, as it uncovers the molecular mechanisms of adaptation using multiple methods and tests. We also provide a detailed outline of the required analyses for studying adaptation to the environment in a population genomics context to better understand the species’ potential adaptive capacity to future climatic scenarios.

Association genetics, geography and ecophysiology link stomatal patterning in Populus trichocarpa with carbon gain and disease resistance trade-offs

Stomata are essential for diffusive entry of gases to support photosynthesis, but may also expose internal leaf tissues to pathogens. To uncover trade-offs in range-wide adaptation relating to stomata, we investigated the underlying genetics of stomatal traits and linked variability in these traits with geoclimate, ecophysiology, condensed foliar tannins and pathogen susceptibility in black cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa). Upper (adaxial) and lower (abaxial) leaf stomatal traits were measured from 454 accessions collected throughout much of the species range. We calculated broad-sense heritability (H(2) ) of stomatal traits and, using SNP data from a 34K Populus SNP array, performed a genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to uncover genes underlying stomatal trait variation. H(2) values for stomatal traits were moderate (average H(2) = 0.33). GWAS identified genes associated primarily with adaxial stomata, including polarity genes (PHABULOSA), stomatal development genes (BRASSINOSTEROID-INSENSITIVE 2) and disease/wound-response genes (GLUTAMATE-CYSTEINE LIGASE). Stomatal traits correlated with latitude, gas exchange, condensed tannins and leaf rust (Melampsora) infection. Latitudinal trends of greater adaxial stomata numbers and guard cell pore size corresponded with higher stomatal conductance (gs ) and photosynthesis (Amax ), faster shoot elongation, lower foliar tannins and greater Melampsora susceptibility. This suggests an evolutionary trade-off related to differing selection pressures across the species range. In northern environments, more adaxial stomata and larger pore sizes reflect selection for rapid carbon gain and growth. By contrast, southern genotypes have fewer adaxial stomata, smaller pore sizes and higher levels of condensed tannins, possibly linked to greater pressure from natural leaf pathogens, which are less significant in northern ecosystems.

Landscape genomics of Populus trichocarpa: the role of hybridization, limited gene flow, and natural selection in shaping patterns of population structure

Populus trichocarpa is an ecologically important tree across western North America. We used a large population sample of 498 accessions over a wide geographical area genotyped with a 34K Populus SNP array to quantify geographical patterns of genetic variation in this species (landscape genomics). We present evidence that three processes contribute to the observed patterns: (1) introgression from the sister species P. balsamifera, (2) isolation by distance (IBD), and (3) natural selection. Introgression was detected only at the margins of the species' distribution. IBD was significant across the sampled area as a whole, but no evidence of restricted gene flow was detected in a core of drainages from southern British Columbia (BC). We identified a large number of FST outliers. Gene Ontology analyses revealed that FST outliers are overrepresented in genes involved in circadian rhythm and response to red/far-red light when the entire dataset is considered, whereas in southern BC heat response genes are overrepresented. We also identified strong correlations between geoclimate variables and allele frequencies at FST outlier loci that provide clues regarding the selective pressures acting at these loci.

Genome-wide association implicates numerous genes underlying ecological trait variation in natural populations of Populus trichocarpa

In order to uncover the genetic basis of phenotypic trait variation, we used 448 unrelated wild accessions of black cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa) from much of its range in western North America. Extensive data from large-scale trait phenotyping (with spatial and temporal replications within a common garden) and genotyping (with a 34 K Populus single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array) of all accessions were used for gene discovery in a genome-wide association study (GWAS). We performed GWAS with 40 biomass, ecophysiology and phenology traits and 29,355 filtered SNPs representing 3518 genes. The association analyses were carried out using a Unified Mixed Model accounting for population structure effects among accessions. We uncovered 410 significant SNPs using a Bonferroni-corrected threshold (P<1.7×10(-6)). Markers were found across 19 chromosomes, explained 1-13% of trait variation, and implicated 275 unique genes in trait associations. Phenology had the largest number of associated genes (240 genes), followed by biomass (53 genes) and ecophysiology traits (25 genes). The GWAS results propose numerous loci for further investigation. Many traits had significant associations with multiple genes, underscoring their genetic complexity. Genes were also identified with multiple trait associations within and/or across trait categories. In some cases, traits were genetically correlated while in others they were not.

Geographical and environmental gradients shape phenotypic trait variation and genetic structure in Populus trichocarpa

• Populus trichocarpa is widespread across western North America spanning extensive variation in photoperiod, growing season and climate. We investigated trait variation in P. trichocarpa using over 2000 trees from a common garden at Vancouver, Canada, representing replicate plantings of 461 genotypes originating from 136 provenance localities. • We measured 40 traits encompassing phenological events, biomass accumulation, growth rates, and leaf, isotope and gas exchange-based ecophysiology traits. With replicated plantings and 29,354 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from 3518 genes, we estimated both broad-sense trait heritability (H(2)) and overall population genetic structure from principal component analysis. • Populus trichocarpa had high phenotypic variation and moderate/high H(2) for many traits. H(2) ranged from 0.3 to 0.9 in phenology, 0.3 to 0.8 in biomass and 0.1 to 0.8 in ecophysiology traits. Most traits correlated strongly with latitude, maximum daylength and temperature of tree origin, but not necessarily with elevation, precipitation or heat : moisture indices. Trait H(2) values reflected trait correlation strength with geoclimate variables. The population genetic structure had one significant principal component (PC1) which correlated with daylength and showed enrichment for genes relating to circadian rhythm and photoperiod. • Robust relationships between traits, population structure and geoclimate in P. trichocarpa reflect patterns which suggest that range-wide geographical and environment gradients have shaped its genotypic and phenotypic variability.

Extensive functional pleiotropy of REVOLUTA substantiated through forward genetics

In plants, genes may sustain extensive pleiotropic functional properties by individually affecting multiple, distinct traits. We discuss results from three genome-wide association studies of approximately 400 natural poplar (Populus trichocarpa) accessions phenotyped for 60 ecological/biomass, wood quality, and rust fungus resistance traits. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the poplar ortholog of the class III homeodomain-leucine zipper transcription factor gene REVOLUTA (PtREV) were significantly associated with three specific traits. Based on SNP associations with fungal resistance, leaf drop, and cellulose content, the PtREV gene contains three potential regulatory sites within noncoding regions at the gene's 3' end, where alternative splicing and messenger RNA processing actively occur. The polymorphisms in this region associated with leaf abscission and cellulose content are suggested to represent more recent variants, whereas the SNP associated with leaf rust resistance may be more ancient, consistent with REV's primary role in auxin signaling and its functional evolution in supporting fundamental processes of vascular plant development.

Genome-wide association mapping for wood characteristics in Populus identifies an array of candidate single nucleotide polymorphisms

Establishing links between phenotypes and molecular variants is of central importance to accelerate genetic improvement of economically important plant species. Our work represents the first genome-wide association study to the inherently complex and currently poorly understood genetic architecture of industrially relevant wood traits. Here, we employed an Illumina Infinium 34K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping array that generated 29,233 high-quality SNPs in c. 3500 broad-based candidate genes within a population of 334 unrelated Populus trichocarpa individuals to establish genome-wide associations. The analysis revealed 141 significant SNPs (α ≤ 0.05) associated with 16 wood chemistry/ultrastructure traits, individually explaining 3-7% of the phenotypic variance. A large set of associations (41% of all hits) occurred in candidate genes preselected for their suggested a priori involvement with secondary growth. For example, an allelic variant in the FRA8 ortholog explained 21% of the total genetic variance in fiber length, when the trait's heritability estimate was considered. The remaining associations identified SNPs in genes not previously implicated in wood or secondary wall formation. Our findings provide unique insights into wood trait architecture and support efforts for population improvement based on desirable allelic variants.

Significant involvement of PEP-CK in carbon assimilation of C4 eudicots

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

C4 eudicot species are classified into biochemical sub-types of C4 photosynthesis based on the principal decarboxylating enzyme. Two sub-types are known, NADP-malic enzyme (ME) and NAD-ME; however, evidence for the occurrence or involvement of the third sub-type (phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase; PEP-CK) is emerging. In this study, the presence and activity of PEP-CK in C4 eudicot species of Trianthema and Zaleya (Sesuvioideae, Aizoaceae) is clarified through analysis of key anatomical features and C4 photosynthetic enzymes.

METHODS

Three C4 species (T. portulacastrum, T. sheilae and Z. pentandra) were examined with light and transmission electron microscopy for leaf structural properties. Activities and immunolocalizations of C4 enzymes were measured for biochemical characteristics.

KEY RESULTS

Leaves of each species possess atriplicoid-type Kranz anatomy, but differ in ultrastructural features. Bundle sheath organelles are centripetal in T. portulacastrum and Z. pentandra, and centrifugal in T. sheilae. Bundle sheath chloroplasts in T. portulacastrum are almost agranal, whereas mesophyll counterparts have grana. Both T. sheilae and Z. pentandra are similar, where bundle sheath chloroplasts contain well-developed grana while mesophyll chloroplasts are grana deficient. Cell wall thickness is significantly greater in T. sheilae than in the other species. Biochemically, T. portulacastrum is NADP-ME, while T. sheilae and Z. pentandra are NAD-ME. Both T. portulacastrum and Z. pentandra exhibit considerable PEP-CK activity, and immunolocalization studies show dense and specific compartmentation of PEP-CK in these species, consistent with high PEP-CK enzyme activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Involvement of PEP-CK in C4 NADP-ME T. portulacastrum and NAD-ME Z. petandra occurs irrespective of biochemical sub-type, or the position of bundle sheath chloroplasts. Ultrastructural traits, including numbers of bundle sheath peroxisomes and mesophyll chloroplasts, and degree of grana development in bundle sheath chloroplasts, coincide more directly with PEP-CK recruitment. Discovery of high PEP-CK activity in C4 Sesuvioideae species offers a unique opportunity for evaluating PEP-CK expression and suggests the possibility that PEP-CK recruitment may exist elsewhere in C4 eudicots.

A 34K SNP genotyping array for Populus trichocarpa: design, application to the study of natural populations and transferability to other Populus species

Genetic mapping of quantitative traits requires genotypic data for large numbers of markers in many individuals. For such studies, the use of large single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping arrays still offers the most cost-effective solution. Herein we report on the design and performance of a SNP genotyping array for Populus trichocarpa (black cottonwood). This genotyping array was designed with SNPs pre-ascertained in 34 wild accessions covering most of the species latitudinal range. We adopted a candidate gene approach to the array design that resulted in the selection of 34 131 SNPs, the majority of which are located in, or within 2 kb of, 3543 candidate genes. A subset of the SNPs on the array (539) was selected based on patterns of variation among the SNP discovery accessions. We show that more than 95% of the loci produce high quality genotypes and that the genotyping error rate for these is likely below 2%. We demonstrate that even among small numbers of samples (n = 10) from local populations over 84% of loci are polymorphic. We also tested the applicability of the array to other species in the genus and found that the number of polymorphic loci decreases rapidly with genetic distance, with the largest numbers detected in other species in section Tacamahaca. Finally, we provide evidence for the utility of the array to address evolutionary questions such as intraspecific studies of genetic differentiation, species assignment and the detection of natural hybrids.

Dynamics of leaf hydraulic conductance with water status: quantification and analysis of species differences under steady state

Leaf hydraulic conductance (K(leaf)) is a major determinant of photosynthetic rate in well-watered and drought-stressed plants. Previous work assessed the decline of K(leaf) with decreasing leaf water potential (Ψ(leaf)), most typically using rehydration kinetics methods, and found that species varied in the shape of their vulnerability curve, and that hydraulic vulnerability correlated with other leaf functional traits and with drought sensitivity. These findings were tested and extended, using a new steady-state evaporative flux method under high irradiance, and the function for the vulnerability curve of each species was determined individually using maximum likelihood for 10 species varying strongly in drought tolerance. Additionally, the ability of excised leaves to recover in K(leaf) with rehydration was assessed, and a new theoretical framework was developed to estimate how rehydration of measured leaves may affect estimation of hydraulic parameters. As hypothesized, species differed in their vulnerability function. Drought-tolerant species showed shallow linear declines and more negative Ψ(leaf) at 80% loss of K(leaf) (P(80)), whereas drought-sensitive species showed steeper, non-linear declines, and less negative P(80). Across species, the maximum K(leaf) was independent of hydraulic vulnerability. Recovery of K(leaf) after 1 h rehydration of leaves dehydrated below their turgor loss point occurred only for four of 10 species. Across species without recovery, a more negative P(80) correlated with the ability to maintain K(leaf) through both dehydration and rehydration. These findings indicate that resistance to K(leaf) decline is important not only in maintaining open stomata during the onset of drought, but also in enabling sustained function during drought recovery.

Decoding leaf hydraulics with a spatially explicit model: principles of venation architecture and implications for its evolution

Leaf venation architecture is tremendously diverse across plant species. Understanding the hydraulic functions of given venation traits can clarify the organization of the vascular system and its adaptation to environment. Using a spatially explicit model (the program K_leaf), we subjected realistic simulated leaves to modifications and calculated the impacts on xylem and leaf hydraulic conductance (K(x) and K(leaf), respectively), important traits in determining photosynthesis and growth. We tested the sensitivity of leaves to altered vein order conductivities (1) in the absence or (2) presence of hierarchical vein architecture, (3) to major vein tapering, and (4) to modification of vein densities (length/leaf area). The K(x) and K(leaf) increased with individual vein order conductivities and densities; for hierarchical venation systems, the greatest impact was from increases in vein conductivity for lower vein orders and increases in density for higher vein orders. Individual vein order conductivities were colimiting of K(x) and K(leaf), as were their densities, but the effects of vein conductivities and densities were orthogonal. Both vein hierarchy and vein tapering increased K(x) relative to xylem construction cost. These results highlight the important consequences of venation traits for the economics, ecology, and evolution of plant transport capacity.

Shifts in leaf vein density through accelerated vein formation in C4 Flaveria (Asteraceae)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Leaf venation in many C(4) species is characterized by high vein density, essential in facilitating rapid intercellular diffusion of C(4) photosynthetic metabolites between different tissues (mesophyll, bundle sheath). Greater vein density has been hypothesized to be an early step in C(4) photosynthesis evolution. Development of C(4) vein patterning is thought to occur from either accelerated or prolonged procambium formation, relative to ground tissue development.

METHODS

Cleared and sectioned tissues of phylogenetically basal C(3) Flaveria robusta and more derived C(4) Flaveria bidentis were compared for vein pattern in mature leaves and vein pattern formation in developing leaves.

KEY RESULTS

In mature leaves, major vein density did not differ between C(3) and C(4) Flaveria species, whereas minor veins were denser in C(4) species than in C(3) species. The developmental study showed that both major and minor vein patterning in leaves of C(3) and C(4) species were initiated at comparable stages (based on leaf length). An additional vein order in the C(4) species was observed during initiation of the higher order minor veins compared with the C(3) species. In the two species, expansion of bundle sheath and mesophyll cells occurred after vein pattern was complete and xylem differentiation was continuous in minor veins. In addition, mesophyll cells ceased dividing sooner and enlarged less in C(4) species than in C(3) species.

CONCLUSIONS

Leaf vein pattern characteristic to C(4) Flaveria was achieved primarily through accelerated and earlier offset of higher order vein formation, rather than other modifications in the timing of vein pattern formation, as compared with C(3) species. Earlier cessation of mesophyll cell division and reduced expansion also contributed to greater vein density in the C(4) species. The relatively late expansion of bundle sheath and mesophyll cells shows that vein patterning precedes ground tissue development in C(4) species.

Photosynthetic pathway influences xylem structure and function in Flaveria (Asteraceae)

Higher water use efficiency (WUE) in C(4) plants may allow for greater xylem safety because transpiration rates are reduced. To evaluate this hypothesis, stem hydraulics and anatomy were compared in 16 C(3), C(3)-C(4) intermediate, C(4)-like and C(4) species in the genus Flaveria. The C(3) species had the highest leaf-specific conductivity (K(L)) compared with intermediate and C(4) species, with the perennial C(4) and C(4)-like species having the lowest K(L) values. Xylem-specific conductivity (K(S)) was generally highest in the C(3) species and lower in intermediate and C(4) species. Xylem vessels were shorter, narrower and more frequent in C(3)-C(4) intermediate, C(4)-like and C(4) species compared with C(3) species. WUE values were approximately double in the C(4)-like and C(4) species relative to the C(3)-C(4) and C(3) species. C(4)-like photosynthesis arose independently at least twice in Flaveria, and the trends in WUE and K(L) were consistent in both lineages. These correlated changes in WUE and K(L) indicate WUE increase promoted K(L) decline during C(4) evolution; however, any involvement of WUE comes late in the evolutionary sequence. C(3)-C(4) species exhibited reduced K(L) but little change in WUE compared to C(3) species, indicating that some reduction in hydraulic efficiency preceded increases in WUE.

Leaf anatomy, gas exchange and photosynthetic enzyme activity in Flaveria kochiana

Flaveria (Asteraceae) is one of the few genera known to contain both C₃ and C₄ species, in addition to numerous biochemically-intermediate species. C₃-C₄ and C₄-like intermediate photosynthesis have arisen more than once in different phylogenetic clades of Flaveria. Here, we characterise for the first time the photosynthetic pathway of the recently described species Flaveria kochiana B.L. Turner. We examined leaf anatomy, activity and localisation of key photosynthetic enzymes, and gas exchange characteristics and compared these trait values with those from related C₄ and C₄-like Flaveria species. F. kochiana has Kranz anatomy that is typical of other C₄ Flaveria species. As in the other C₄ lineages within the Flaveria genus, the primary decarboxylating enzyme is NADP-malic enzyme. Immunolocalisation of the major C₄ cycle enzymes, PEP carboxylase and pyruvate, orthophosphate dikinase, were restricted to the mesophyll, while Rubisco was largely localised to the bundle sheath. Gas exchange analysis demonstrated that F. kochiana operates a fully functional C₄ pathway with little sensitivity to ambient oxygen levels. The CO₂ compensation point (2.2 µbar) was typical for C₄ species, and the O₂-response of the CO₂ compensation point was the same as the C₄ species F. trinervia. Notably, F. vaginata (B.L. Robinson & Greenman), a putative C₄-like species that is the nearest relative of F. kochiana, had an identical response of the CO₂ compensation point to O₂. Furthermore, F. vaginata, exhibited a carbon isotope ratio (-15.4‰) similar to C₄ species including F. australasica Hooker, F. trinervia Spreng. C. Mohr and the newly characterised F. kochiana. F. vaginata could be considered a C₄ species, but additional studies are necessary to confirm this hypothesis. In addition, our results show that F. kochiana uses an efficient C₄ cycle, with the highest initial slope of the A/C_i curve of any C₄ Flaveria species.

Key innovations in the evolution of Kranz anatomy and C4 vein pattern in Flaveria (Asteraceae)

Kranz anatomy and C(4) vein pattern are required for C(4) biochemical functioning in C(4) plants; however, the evolutionary timing of anatomical and biochemical adaptations is unknown. From the genus Flaveria, 16 species (C(3), C(4), intermediates [C(3)-C(4), C(4)-like]) were analyzed, novel anatomical and vein pattern characters were analyzed and key anatomical differences among photosynthetic groups were highlighted. A stepwise acquisition of anatomical and vein pattern traits prior to derived biochemistry was outlined on the basis of the phylogeny of Flaveria. Increased vein density represents a potential "precondition" contributing to lower ratios of photosynthetic tissues (mesophyll, bundle sheath) and precedes further anatomical and biochemical modifications observed in derived C(3)-C(4) intermediates. In derived Flaveria species, bundle sheath volume is modified through cell expansion, whereas mesophyll volume is altered through mesophyll cell expansion, reductions in the number of ground tissue layers, and increased vein density. Results demonstrated that key anatomical features of C(4) plants are also required for C(3)-C(4) biochemical intermediacy, and anatomical and biochemical alterations acquired during evolution of intermediacy may predispose a species for evolution of C(4) photosynthesis. C(4)-like species are similar to C(4) species, demonstrating that Kranz anatomy is fully evolved before complete C(4) biochemistry is achieved.

Is C4 photosynthesis less phenotypically plastic than C3 photosynthesis?

C4 photosynthesis is a complex specialization that enhances carbon gain in hot, often arid habitats where photorespiration rates can be high. Certain features unique to C4 photosynthesis may reduce the potential for phenotypic plasticity and photosynthetic acclimation to environmental change relative to what is possible with C3 photosynthesis. During acclimation, the structural and physiological integrity of the mesophyll-bundle sheath (M-BS) complex has to be maintained if C4 photosynthesis is to function efficiently in the new environment. Disruption of the M-BS structure could interfere with metabolic co-ordination between the C3 and C4 cycles, decrease metabolite flow rate between the tissues, increase CO2 leakage from the bundle sheath, and slow enzyme activity. C4 plants have substantial acclimation potential, but in most cases lag behind the acclimation responses in C3 plants. For example, some C4 species are unable to maintain high quantum yields when grown in low-light conditions. Others fail to reduce carboxylase content in shade, leaving substantial over-capacity of Rubisco and PEP carboxylase in place. Shade-tolerant C4 grasses lack the capacity for maintaining a high state of photosynthetic induction following sunflecks, and thus may be poorly suited to exploit subsequent sunflecks compared with C3 species. In total, the evidence indicates that C4 photosynthesis is less phenotypically plastic than C3 photosynthesis, and this may contribute to the more restricted ecological and geographical distribution of C4 plants across the Earth.

Phylogeny of Flaveria (Asteraceae) and inference of C4 photosynthesis evolution

A well-resolved phylogeny of Flaveria is used to infer evolutionary relationships among species, biogeographical distributions, and C(4) photosynthetic evolution. Data on morphology, life history, and DNA sequences (chloroplastic trnL-F, nuclear ITS and ETS) for 21 of 23 known species were collected. Each data set was analyzed separately and in combination using maximum parsimony and Bayesian analyses. The phylogeny of Flaveria is based on the combined analysis of all data. Our phylogenetic evidence indicates that C(3) Flaveria are all basal to intermediate (C(3)-C(4) and C(4)-like) and fully expressed C(4) Flaveria species. Two strongly supported clades (A and B) are present. Using this phylogeny, we evaluate the current systematics of the genus and suggest the removal and reevaluation of certain taxa. We also infer the center of origin and dispersal of Flaveria species. Multiple origins of photosynthetic pathway intermediacy in Flaveria are recognized. C(3)-C(4) intermediacy has evolved twice in the genus and is found to be evolutionarily intermediate in clade A, but not necessarily in clade B. C(4)-like photosynthesis is also derived once in each clade. In addition, fully expressed C(4) photosynthesis may have evolved up to three times within clade A.