Abstract: Slight flutuation in carbon isotope values were found in counted from top dounward to the 35th in pineapple, Ananas comosus (L.) Merr., but more negative δ13C value (less heavier 13C) was observed in lower position leaves. The average δ 13C value was –12.94‰ in 11 leaves with maximum range of variation as –2.06‰. Similar single peak curves were found between PEPCase and PEP carboxykinase activities with leaves at various positions. Both enzymes reached the maximum activity in 8—11th leaves, then declined in others at lower positions. PEP carboxykinase activity was 3.4 folds higher than PEPCase activity under the present experimental condition (25—30 ℃). The results indicated that metabolic coordination evisted between dark carboxylation and light decarboxylation. For the obligate CAM plant, pineapple, though the carboxylation and decarxylation activities did occur in old leaves, the CAM level change did much, however.

Key words: Pineapple, Stable carbon isotope, PEP carboxylase, PEP carboxykinase, Leaf position