Antitranspirant activity of inhibitors of cyclic photophosphorylation

Abstract

The antitranspirant activity of three inhibitors of cyclic photophosphorylation (2,4-dinitro-phenol, 2-chloromercuri-4,6-dinitrophenol, and salicylaldoxime) on 6-week-old plants of Datura arborea was examined. The test compounds reduced transpiration and the effect persisted for 12 d. The dry matter production by the plants was not affected. The reduction in water loss was caused by stomatal closure. Inhibitors of cyclic photophosphorylation, by virtue of their prolonged action associated with a small effect on dry matter accumulation, may be useful as antitranspirants. © 1977 Oxford University Press.