Question

1. a) List and explain five of the factors that may influence the photosynthetic rate of range forage plants. b) Demonstrate how these factors may be modified by the range manager.

Answer 1

1. The low intensity or high intensity of light can significantly affect the photosynthetic rate in range forage plants and very high light can damage stomata significantly which can affect over all photosynthesis.
2. Another factor is levels of CO₂ concentration for photosynthesis.
3. Optimum moisture is also warranted for photosynthesis.
4. Extreme temperature can fluctuate the rate of photosynthesis is the said zone.
5. Unavailability of the plant surface of the leave or plant for the photosynthesis, so grazing by foraging animals would be a significant factor in the fluctuation in the photosynthesis in the designated zone.

The responsibility of range manager would be to control above-mentioned factors up to limit; they can regulate or prevent grazing of various domestic or wild animals in that area which can affect the photosynthetic rate. With efficient management they may control moisture and temperature in the given area thus regulate the photosynthetic rate. There are various tier of photosynthesis and lower tier (C3 or C4) can be managed and control effectively.