May 22, 2026 | Discover Applied Sciences | Sitthan
This study conducted by Universiti Malaysia investigated the effects of elevated temperature and atmospheric CO₂ concentration on the photosynthetic performance of five tropical fruit species. Climate change can affect plant growth, photosynthesis, transpiration, and water availability, potentially reducing fruit crop productivity. Understanding species-specific physiological responses is important for identifying crops better adapted to changing environmental conditions.
The researchers collected mature leaves from durian (Durio zibethinus), mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana), kristal (Pometia pinnata), dabai (Canarium odontophyllum), and engkalak (Litsea garciae) in Sarawak, Malaysia. Photosynthetic responses were measured under two temperatures (25 and 30 °C) and two CO₂ concentrations (400 and 700 ppm) using a portable photosynthesis system.
The results showed that durian, mangosteen, kristal, and engkalak exhibited high net photosynthetic assimilation rates under the tested conditions. However, dabai, mangosteen, and kristal demonstrated more favorable gas-exchange responses to increased temperature and CO₂ concentration. Among the evaluated species, mangosteen and kristal showed greater heat tolerance and adaptability to the simulated environmental conditions.
The findings provide information on the physiological responses of tropical fruit crops to climate-related changes and suggest that mangosteen and kristal may be suitable candidates for cultivation under warmer conditions.
