Abstract: | The effects of exposure of up to 2 h with sulphur dioxide ona range of plant species was observed by measuring changes inthe rate of net photosynthesis under closely controlled environmentalconditions. Ryegrass, Lolium perenne S23 was thespecies most sensitive to SO2; significant inhibition was detectedat 200 nl l1. Fumigations at 300 nl l1 also inhibitedphotosynthesis in field bean (Vicia faba cv. Three FoldWhite and Blaze) and in barley (Hordeumvulgare cv. Sonja). No effect was detected inwheat (Triticum aestivum cv. Virtue) at concentrationsup to 600 nl l1 SO2, or in oil-seed rape (Brassica napuscv. Rafal) except at 800 nl l1 SO2). Recoverycommenced immediately after the fumigation was terminated andwas complete within 2 h when inhibition had not exceeded 20%during the SO2 treatment. Key words: Sulphur dioxide, short-term fumigation, photosynthesis |