THE PHYSIOLOGY OF CIRCADIAN RHYTMS OF PLANTS

Abstract

Studying circadian rhythms in plants is essential for understanding how they coordinate their biological processes according to the daily cycles of light and darkness. This field of research is of particular importance from several points of view. It ensures the optimization of photosynthesis and growth, since, as is known, circadian rhythms control the opening and closing of stomata, regulating gas exchange and water loss. They synchronize the activity of enzymes involved in photosynthesis with the time of day, maximizing the energy efficiency of the plant.The biological rhythms can be affected by external factors, but are not determined exclusively by them. Light, temperature and humidity can adjust the internal clock, but they do not generate it - it is endogenous. Desynchronization of biological rhythms negatively affects plant development. If the biological clock is disrupted, plants become less efficient in metabolic processes and have reduced growth.