Changes in photosynthetic attributes in response to copper depletion in sugar beets (Beta vulgaris L)

Abstract
Various characteristics of the photosynthetic apparatus of sugar beet were investigated with respect to changes in leaf copper content due to copper depletion. Copper deficiency inhibited whole chain electron transport or photosystem (PS) I or PS II electron transport measured separately. The minimal copper requirement was found to be 0.95 natom/cm2 for whole chain electron transport and 0.75 natom/cm2 for PS I or PS II electron transport. The minimum copper requirement to maintain normal contents of chlorophylls, carotenoids, and plastoquinone was 0.5 natom Cu/cm2.