Effects of Ozone on Crops and Protective Effects of Ethylenediurea as an Anti-Oxidant

Phytotoxic effects of ozone and ethylenediurea (EDU) on soybean (Glycine max) and spinach (Spinacia oleracea) were observed by using open-top field chamber system (OTC). Gas exchange rates (photosynthesis. stomatal conductance and transpiration rates) of soybean plants were decreased by 20% to 30% by ambient ozone and resulted in 30% reduction of seed yields. In OTC. ambient ozone and 0.12 $\mu$l/l $O_3$ decreased gas exchange rates of spinach by 25% to 40% and by 50%. respectively. The protective effect of EDU against ozone induced injury was obtained at 100 mg/l on soybean. and at 250 mg/l on spinach, respectively. The excessive application of EDU. however. inhibited photosynthesis. transpiration. and stomatal conductance without any specific visible damage.