Transpiration-linked Short-circuit Currents in the Xylem of a Liana

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Abstract
An application of the methods of irreversible thermodynamics to the fluxes in plant xylem is examined, and an expression is derived for the electric current present when a length of stem is short circuted. After examination of the electrode by-passing efficiency, bioelectricity in Cayratia clematidea (F. Muell.) Domin., maintained under conditions of adequate soil water, is shown to reflect changes in the transpiration rate. Pressure gradients and sap velocities in C. clematidea are estimated from short-circuit current data. It is suggested that the experimental technique described may be useful for continuous measurements of sap flow or transpiration without disturbing the plant environment.

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