How Is Photosynthesis Similar In C4 Plants And Cam Plants?

Alternative photosynthetic strategies in C4 and CAM plants

Photosynthesis is an important process that occurs in plants, allowing them to convert sunlight into energy. While the majority of plants utilize the C3 pathway, there are some plants that have evolved alternative strategies to cope with harsh environmental conditions. C4 plants and CAM plants are two examples of such plants, and they share some similarities in their photosynthetic mechanisms.

Efficient Adaptations in C4 and CAM Plants

Firstly, both C4 plants and CAM plants have adapted certain anatomical features to maximize their photosynthetic efficiency. C4 plants have specialized cells called bundle sheath cells, which surround the veins of their leaves. These cells are responsible for the separation of carbon fixation and the Calvin cycle, which minimizes photorespiration and increases overall efficiency. Similarly, CAM plants have specialized cells called mesophyll cells that are capable of storing carbon dioxide at night, avoiding water loss during the day.

Carbon fixation in C4 and CAM plants

Secondly, both C4 and CAM plants employ an additional carbon fixation step that prevents photorespiration. In C4 plants, the enzyme phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEP carboxylase) captures carbon dioxide in mesophyll cells and converts it into a four-carbon compound. This compound is then transported to the bundle sheath cells and broken down to release carbon dioxide for the Calvin cycle. Similarly, CAM plants fix carbon dioxide at night by converting it into organic acids and storing them in the vacuoles. During the day, these acids are broken down, releasing carbon dioxide for the Calvin cycle.

Water-saving mechanisms in C4 and CAM plants

Another similarity between C4 and CAM plants is their ability to minimize water loss. Both types of plants have developed mechanisms to avoid opening their stomata during hot and dry periods of the day. In C4 plants, the bundle sheath cells act as a barrier, preventing the loss of water by filtering carbon dioxide through them. Similarly, CAM plants open their stomata at night, taking in carbon dioxide and storing it within the plant tissues, thus limiting water loss during the daytime.