S.W. (Sander) Hogewoning: On the photosynthetic and developmental responses of leaves to the spectral composition of light

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16 Nov 2010 16:00
Location: Aula, building 362, Gen. Foulkesweg 1, Wageningen
Organisation: Wageningen University
Promotor: prof.dr. O. van Kooten (Horticultural Production Chains)
Co Promotor: dr. J. Harbinson , dr.ir. W. van Ieperen

 The effect of light spectrum on the functioning of plants is a relatively poorly explored terrain. The recent rise of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) makes this research field highly relevant for the horticultural industry. LEDs emit light in a narrow wavelength band, are available in a variety of colours, and are increasingly used as growth lamps for plants. Red light alone was found to disturb the photosynthetic process, whereas these disorders were mitigated by adding a small amount of blue. The higher the blue light percentage, the more leaves developed characteristics normally associated with a high light intensity (i.e. sun-leaves). Leaf photosynthesis was shown to acclimate to the spectrum of its environment by changes in the compostion of the light processing units (photosystems) in the leaf. Using a unique artificial solar light system, it was demonstrated that spectral effects on plant morphology can be much more relevant for crop productivity than the photosynthetic rate per area of leaf. Together these results can be used to develop more intelligent lighting strategies for crop production.
Title thesis: On the photosynthetic and developmental responses of leaves to the spectral composition of light
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