L42 Climate Change and the Biosphere

Climate Crisis

Global climate change affecting ecosystems and agriculture.

Growing Season

Now 29 days longer than in the 1980s.

Extreme Rainfall

Increased intensity and variability of rainfall patterns.

Winter Flooding

More frequent and severe flooding during winter months.

Supply Shocks

Sudden changes affecting agricultural income and production.

Yield Limitation

Variable weather patterns restrict crop yield potential.

Deluge

Heavy rainfall leading to significant crop yield loss.

Drought

Extended periods of low rainfall affecting crop health.

Global Warming

Accelerating rise in Earth's average temperature.

Photosynthesis

Process converting light energy into chemical energy.

Calvin-Benson Cycle

Series of reactions in photosynthesis producing sugars.

C4 Photosynthesis

Efficient carbon fixation process in certain plants.

CAM Photosynthesis

Carbon fixation at night to reduce water loss.

Photorespiration

Process competing with photosynthesis, reducing sugar production.

Stomata

Plant pores regulating gas exchange and water loss.

RuBisCO

Key enzyme in carbon fixation during photosynthesis.

Heat Stress

High temperatures negatively impacting plant growth.

Selective Breeding

Choosing plants with desirable traits for cultivation.

Genetic Modification

Altering plant genomes to enhance traits or yields.

Degree Days

Measure of heat accumulation for crop development.

Crop Distribution

Geographic changes in where crops can be grown.

Irrigation Needs

Water requirements for crop cultivation.

Biodiversity

Variety of plant and animal life in ecosystems.

Genomic Editing

Precise modification of plant DNA for desired traits.

RCA

RuBisCO Activase, enzyme activating RuBisCO under stress.

Environmental Impact

Effects of agricultural practices on ecosystems and climate.