Abstract: The stomata and green cells in wheat ears were observed by electron microscopy, and the photosynthetic activity of the ears was measured with an infra-red gas analyser. 1. The awn, glume, palea, lemma, and axis were photosynthetic organs on the wheat ears. Stomata, however, only existed at the green parts in these organs. The ears which had longer awns and higher content of chlorophyll usually showed relatively high photosynthetic rates. 2. The structure and photochemical activity of the chloroplasts in the awns were similar to those in the leaves. 3. The photosynthetic rate of ears could be promoted by increasing light intensity and CO2 concentration. The CO2 compensation point (110 ppm) and the light compensation point (200μE·m-2 · s-1)of ears were higher than those of leaves. 4. The wheat ears had photoresplration. The CO2-releasing rate of the ears under light could be promoted by high O3 concentration. The CO2 outburst and the oscillation in photosynthesis in the awns could be measured. These results suggested that the photosynthetic pathway in the wheat ears was Cspathway. 5. The highest photosynthetic rate of ears emerged at flowering stage. Thereafter, the photosynthetic activity of the ears fell down as the chlorophyll content declined and the grains were filled up.

Key words: Wheat, Ear, Awn, Stoma, Chlorophyll, Photosynthetic rate, CO2-out-burst and oscillation in photosynthesis