Photosynthetic characteristics of a new yellow-green mutant with high photosynthetic rate in rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Contents of chlorophylls and carotenoids in yellow-green mutant Biao 810S were approximately half those in control type 810S. Biao 810S had fewer grana lamellae and looser structure than 810S, lower volume of starch granules in chloroplasts, but under high temperature and high irradiance the net photosynthetic rate (P(N)) of Biao 810S was higher than that of 810S. The chlorophyll fluorescence parameter F(v)/F(m) of Biao 810S was little higher and photochemical quenching qPwas obviously higher than those of 810S. No significant differences in P(N) and biomass were observed in their hybrid combination. The yellow-green mutant phenotype may be a useful genetic marker of P(T)GMS rice used for hybrid seed production.