Kranz Anatomy in C4 Plants

What is Kranz Anatomy?

In this pathway, atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) is initially fixed into a four-carbon molecule (malic acid or malate), hence the name C4. Those plants typically exhibit a distinct leaf anatomy called Kranz anatomy, which involves two types of photosynthetic cells with separate morphological and functional characteristics. These are the bundle sheath cells surrounding the vascular centers and the mesophyll cells enveloping the bundle sheath cells beneath the leaf epidermis....

Kranz Anatomy in C4 Plants

In C4 plants, Kranz anatomy refers to a specialized arrangement of leaf cells that enhances the efficiency of photosynthesis, particularly in hot and dry conditions. This anatomical adaptation is crucial for their ability to concentrate CO2 around the enzyme rubisco, thereby minimizing photorespiration and maximizing carbon fixation. C4 plants have two types of photosynthetic cells: mesophyll cells and bundle sheath cells. Mesophyll cells are typically arranged in a layer beneath the upper epidermis of the leaf....

Kranz Anatomy Diagram

The Kranz anatomy diagram is given below:...

Structure of C4 Plants

The structure of C4 plants shows a distinctive Kranz Anatomy that includes:...

Function of Kranz Anatomy

In most plants, carbon dioxide undergoes initial fixation into a compound with three carbon atoms (C3) through the photosynthetic enzyme ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase oxygenase, or RuBisCo, which is known as C3 photosynthesis and these plants are called C3 plants....

Advantages of Kranz Anatomy

Kranz anatomy is advantageous because it enables plants to efficiently produce their food. This anatomical feature revolves around the veins in the leaves, forming a layer of cells that can absorb more light. This capability allows the plant to generate increased amounts of sugar and oxygen for its metabolic processes. Consequently, there are other advantages too. Some of these benefits are outlined below:...

Development of Kranz Anatomy

The development of Kranz anatomy occurs in three distinct steps:...

Characteristic Features of Kranz Anatomy

The features of Kranz Anatomy include:...

What is the Difference Between C3 and C4 plants?

In the context of Kranz anatomy, it is worth noting the important differences between C3 and C4 plants....

Difference between Mesophyll Cells and Bundle Sheath Cells

Mesophyll cells are located in the leaf’s interior, and responsible for initial CO2 fixation in C4 plants, while bundle sheath cells surround vascular bundles, facilitating the Calvin cycle and minimizing photorespiration. Here are some key differences,...

Conclusion – What is Kranz Anatomy?

The specialized molecular processes underlying Kranz Anatomy in C4 plants enable high photosynthetic rates and increased glucose production. Expanding the use of C4 plant species in agriculture, like maize and sugarcane, or transferring C4-like CO2 fixation capabilities to C3 crops, such as rice, holds promise for enhancing agricultural productivity. Additionally, understanding C4 photosynthesis may help in developing biofuel sources like maize and switchgrass, contributing to green energy....

FAQs – Kranz Anatomy

What is Kranz Anatomy Class 11?...