Variations in photosynthetic rate and associated parameters with age of oil palm leaves under irrigation

Abstract

Net photosynthetic rate (P N), transpiration rate (E), and stomatal conductance (g s) in an adult oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) canopy were highest in the 9th leaf and progressively declined with leaf age. Larger leaf area (LA) and leaf dry mass (LDM) were recorded in middle leaves. P N showed a significant positive correlation with g s and a negative relationship with leaf mass per area (ALM). The oil palm leaf remains photosynthetically active for a longer time in the canopy which contributes significantly to larger dry matter production in general and greater fresh fruit bunch yields in particular.