A small dynamic leaf-level model predicting photosynthesis in greenhouse tomatoes

The conversion of supplemental greenhouse light energy into biomass is not always optimal. Recent trends in global energy prices and discussions on climate change highlight the need to reduce our energy footprint associated with the use of supplemental light in greenhouse crop production. This can be achieved by implementing "smart" lighting regimens which in turn rely on a good understanding of how fluctuating light influences photosynthetic physiology. Here, a simple fit-for-purpose dynamic model is presented. It accurately predicts net leaf photosynthesis under natural fluctuating light. It comprises two ordinary differential equations predicting: 1) the total stomatal conductance to CO2 diffusion and 2) the CO2 concentration inside a leaf. It contains elements of the Farquhar-von Caemmerer-Berry model and the successful incorporation of this model suggests that for tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), it is sufficient to assume that Rubisco remains activated despite rapid fluctuations in irradiance. Furthermore, predictions of the net photosynthetic rate under both 400ppm and enriched 800ppm ambient CO2 concentrations indicate a strong correlation between the dynamic rate of photosynthesis and the rate of electron transport. Finally, we are able to indicate whether dynamic photosynthesis is Rubisco or electron transport rate limited. Author summaryThe cultivation of greenhouse crops under optimised conditions will become increasingly important, with supplemental lighting playing a vital role. However, converting light energy into plant photosynthesis is not always optimal. A potential venue that may lead to the efficient conversion of light energy involves a model-based implementation of "smart" lighting control strategy. This approach does however necessitate a good understanding of how plants harness light energy under natural fluctuating irradiance. Accordingly, as a first step, we have developed a small leaf-level model that predicts dynamic photosynthesis in natural fluctuating light. It may potentially be used in future supplemental light control applications.