Experimental studies found that increased CO2 caused some types of plants to increase their overall growth rates. What aspect of phenotypic plasticity contributed to the increase in growth rate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The decrease in the time that stomata are open is an example of phenotypic plasticity because it is a response to the environment (in this case, increased CO2 levels) that results in a change in the plant's phenotype (in this case, increased growth rates). When stomata are open, water is lost through transpiration, so by decreasing the time that stomata are open in response to increased CO2, plants are able to conserve water and put that saved energy towards growth.

Experimental Studies Found That Increased CO2 Caused Some Types of Plants