The effect of varying carbon dioxide levels on C3 and C4 grasses

Abstract:

As the world continues to use fossil fuels, atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations will continue to rise. Therefore, plants are exposed to greater amounts of carbon dioxide than ever before. This project will investigate the effects of normal and higher levels of carbon dioxide on C3 and C4 grasses. C3 and C4 grasses are commonly grown in the United States, while C3 species prefer cooler climates and C4 species prefer warmer climates. These grasses photosynthesize, requiring carbon dioxide to convert energy into plant biomass and releasing oxygen, as do all plants. These producers are the base of the food chain for most terrestrial ecosystems as well as a source of food, clothing, fuel, shelter, and other products for humans. As the grasses are being exposed to normal or higher levels of carbon dioxide, their germination times, seed production, and above ground biomass will be recorded in order to determine how increased levels of carbon dioxide affect C3 and C4 grasses.