Daily Rhythm Helps Some Tomatoes Thrive with Less Water

Research at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem found that some tomatoes have a daily rhythm of opening and closing their microscopic leaf pores that makes them produce higher yields while using less water. Scientists found that the strongest-performing plants among genetically diverse tomatoes had an early-morning surge in stomatal activity, opening their stomata when sunlight was already strong but before heat and dry air greatly increased water loss. They also recovered more quickly after drought. Researchers say that identifying plants with the optimal daily rhythm can help them breed tomatoes and other crop plants that are better equipped for warmer and drier climate conditions.