Can Increased Photorespiration Affect Photosynthesis?

Photorespiration reduces the efficiency of photosynthesis for a couple of reasons. ... In other words, the carbon is oxidized, which is the reverse of photosynthesis—the reduction of carbon to carbohydrate. Secondly, it is now necessary to resynthesize the ribulose bisphosphate and to reduce the phosphoglycolate.

What happens when photorespiration increases?

Photorespiration increases availability of NADH, which is required for the conversion of nitrate to nitrite. Certain nitrite transporters also transport bicarbonate, and elevated CO2 has been shown to suppress nitrite transport into chloroplasts.

Why is photorespiration bad for photosynthesis?

Biochemical studies indicate that photorespiration consumes ATP and NADPH, the high-energy molecules made by the light reactions. Thus, photorespiration is a wasteful process because it prevents plants from using their ATP and NADPH to synthesize carbohydrates.

David Miller

David Miller

Executive Financial & Market Analyst

David Miller brings 15 years of experience in global economics, personal finance strategy, and market dynamics. He specializes in turning complex economic trends into actionable insights for everyday readers.