Research. work.

Question

Discuss the evolution of CAM phsiology

Answer 1

Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) is a type of photosynthesis found in plants like cacti (Crassulaceae). The adaptive advantage of this metabolic pathway is minimizing photorespiration in hot and dry environments. CAM physiology involves temporal separation of carbon fixation. During the evening, CO2 is fixed by PEP carboxylase. The C4 organic acid malate is stored in the vacuole. During the day, CO2 is released, creating a high concentration of CO2 (as opposed to O2) for RUBISCO in the Calvin Cycle. This allows stomata to open during the evening, and avoid water loss during the day.