Photoinhibition
nounPronunciation: /ˌfoʊtoʊɪnˈhɪbɪʃən/
The reversible or irreversible damage to photosynthetic apparatus, particularly photosystem II, when light energy exceeds the plant's capacity for productive use. Excessive light causes reactive species generation and protein degradation in thylakoid membranes.
Plain English
Damage to photosynthetic machinery caused by excessive light that the plant cannot efficiently use.
Etymology & History
Usage
"Alpine plants minimize photoinhibition through photoprotective pigment accumulation and dynamic photosynthetic adjustments."
Style guide notes: Distinguish between photoinhibition (process) and photoprotection (defense) in all technical writing.
Also known as
Contrasted with
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
How do plants recover from reversible photoinhibition damage?
Protein repair mechanisms and xanthophyll cycle activation restore photosynthetic function within hours.
Which stressors increase photoinhibition susceptibility?
Low temperature, drought, and high light combinations dramatically enhance photoinhibitory damage risk.
Why Test Candidates on This?
Important for understanding plant survival mechanisms under combined abiotic stress, especially high light with other stressors.
Required skill level: Senior