Gaseous-diffusion porometer for continuous measurement of diffusive resistance of leaves

Abstract

We describe a porometer that enables continuous monitoring of the stomatal diffusive resistance of leaves. The flux is measured of a gas-such as nitrous oxide-diffusing through a leaf that divides an enclosing chamber into two compartments. Nitrous oxide is added in known concentration to the airstream passing through the compartment on one side of the leaf and is recovered from the airstream passing through the opposite compartment. From measurements of the difference in concentration across the leaf and of the flux, the diffusive resistance of the leaf to N(2)O is calculated; this value, adjusted for resistance external to the leaf, gives a continuous record of internal diffusive resistance. This record can be made simultaneously with measurements of transpiration and photosynthesis.