In CAM plants, organic acids are decarboxylated at

Options

A. Day
B. Night
C. Both (1) & (2)
D. None of these

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding CAM Plants**: CAM (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism) plants have adapted to arid environments by opening their stomata at night to minimize water loss. This is contrary to most plants that open their stomata during the day.

2. **CO2 Fixation at Night**: During the night, CAM plants take in carbon dioxide (CO2) through their open stomata. This CO2 is then fixed into organic acids, primarily malate.

3. **Formation of Organic Acids**: The fixation of CO2 leads to the formation of organic acids such as malate. These organic acids accumulate in the photosynthetic cells during the night.

4. **Decarboxylation Process**: In the morning, when the stomata close to prevent water loss, the accumulated organic acids are decarboxylated. This means that the carboxyl group (-COOH) is removed from the organic acids, releasing CO2.

5. **Timing of Decarboxylation**: The decarboxylation of these organic acids occurs during the daytime, specifically in the morning after the stomata have closed.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, in CAM plants, organic acids are decarboxylated in the morning.

**Final Answer**: In CAM plants, organic acids are decarboxylated in the morning.

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