Could elevated CO 2 ameliorate the negative effects of elevated O 3 on
yield and quality mustard ( Brassica juncea )?
Abstract
This research explores the impact of elevated ozone (eO
3), elevated carbon dioxide (eCO 2), and
their interaction on the yield and quality of mustard (Brassica juncea)
crops through a Free Air Concentration Enrichment (FACE) experiment
conducted in an open field setting. By examining a range of
physiological parameters across different mustard varieties, this study
aims to understand the responses of these crops to changing atmospheric
conditions and identify genotypes with enhanced resilience to eO
3 and adaptability to future eCO 2
levels. Key physiological traits, including photosynthate availability,
antioxidant and secondary metabolite production, and gas exchange
parameters (photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, transpiration
rate, and water-use efficiency), were analyzed at various growth stages
to assess their correlation with yield and quality attributes under each
treatment condition. The findings demonstrate that eO 3
significantly reduces yield by impacting quaternary branches, seed
yield, biomass, and other yield-related parameters, while eCO
2 promotes yield and quality, enhancing photosynthesis
and subsequent photosynthate accumulation. Notably, eCO
2 was found to mitigate the adverse effects of eO3 on
yield and fatty acid composition, indicating a potential buffer against
ozone-induced stress. Among the studied varieties, Pusa Bold exhibited
superior performance, showing particular resilience to eO3 and
benefiting from eCO2 enhancement. Multivariate analysis and linear
modeling of the physiological parameters highlighted significant
treatment and genotypic differences, underscoring the complex interplay
between environmental factors and crop physiology. The study’s outcomes
suggest that selecting genotypes with tolerance to ozone and favorable
responses to elevated CO2 could be pivotal in sustaining mustard
production under future climatic conditions. This research contributes
to the broader understanding of how elevated atmospheric gases influence
agricultural crops, offering insights for breeding and management
practices aimed at enhancing crop resilience and food security in the
face of climate change.