Question

Which of the following is $C_4$ plant?

• A. Maize
• B. Atriplex
• C. Sugarcane
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is D All of the above

The $C_4$ photosynthesis is an adaptation of the $C_3$ pathway, that overcomes the limitation of the photorespiration, improving photosynthetic efficiency and minimizing the water loss in hot, dry environments. Generally, $C_4$ species originate from warmer climates than $C_3$ species. Most $C_4$ plants are native to the tropics and warm temperate zones with high light intensity and high temperature. Under these conditions, $C_4$ plants exhibit higher photosynthetic and growth rates due to gains in the water, carbon and nitrogen efficiency uses. Some of the worlds most productive crops and pasture, such as maize, sugar cane, sorghum, amaranth, paspalus, bermuda grass are $C_4$ plants. It is interesting that Atriplex rosea shows Hatch Slack cycle, whereas Atriplex hastata shows Calvin cycle.