Gas exchange in leaves of sun and shade of cashew in different water regimes

Abstract

In this experiment we analyzed the seasonal variations in gas exchange rates of dwarf cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) when exposed to irrigated and rainfed conditions. Full sun and shaded of clones CCP 76 and BRS 189 were monthly assessed for determination of stomatal conductance (g_s), transpiration rate (E) and photosynthesis (A), internal and external CO₂ (C_i/C_e) and leaf temperature. The experiment was carried out between September 2006 and August 2007, at the experimental station of Embrapa Agroindústria Tropical, located at Paraipaba County, state of Ceará, Brazil. In general, the variables A, g_s, E and C_i/C_e were affected only in terms of time of year and types of leaves. Light influenced the physiological factors rather than suppression of water. Possibly because the results obtained here are better related to the phenological stages than with the treatments, demonstrating a conspicuous physiological effect of the strength of the drains and the irradiance in these plants.