Elevated atmospheric CO2and the future of crop plants

Atmospheric CO(2)levels on Earth have risen steeply over the last 60 years and will continue to do so in future. CO(2)traps heat from earth's surface, which causes an increase in temperature and leads to other climatic changes. Crop plants are currently challenged by climate change. In general, elevated CO(2)increases photosynthetic rates, plant growth and the ability of plants to counteract stress. However, the effect of eCO(2)on respiration is not apparent. Plants growing at eCO(2)probably do not have sufficient respiratory ATP to drive cellular processes like nutrient uptake and transport, which impairs their nutritional quality. Here, we review how eCO(2)modulates growth and nutritional value of crop plants, emphasizing the contribution of photosynthesis and respiration. We highlight the mechanisms that modulate acclimation and adaptive responses of plants to eCO(2)and also discuss the ecological consequences. Finally, we project sorghum as a model for an eCO(2)ready crop.

Automated summary

Rising CO2 levels impact crop plants by increasing photosynthesis rates and plant growth, but may also impair their nutritional quality. Plants can adapt and acclimate to elevated CO2 levels, but the effect on respiration needs further study. Sorghum is projected as a potential model crop for an eCO2-ready future.