Ozone-Induced Changes in Plant Metabolism

Abstract

Chronic ozonation of plants causes adaptive or damaging changes in plant metabolism. The stable quantity of antioxidants in plant cells undergoes an increase, and new antioxidants or other protective compounds are formed. The damage inflicted on the cell by ozone is, like many other factors, first displayed at the biochemical level before visible morphological symptoms of toxicosis can be seen (Dugger and Ting, 1970). Photosynthesis, respiration, nitrogen and lipid exchanges are all affected, along with the activities of the secondary metabolism. Later, visible damage appears, such as necrotic spots and bronze coloration on leaves (see chapter 6). In this chapter, the main changes in plant metabolism occurring in response to ozone fumigation will be considered.