Distorted phytochrome action spectra in green plants.

Red light absorption by photosynthetic pigments screens stem tissue of Phaseolus vulgaris L. seedlings to such an extent that the most effective wavelength for the phytochrome induction control of stem growth is approximately 628 nm. Screening is greater in the first internode than in the hypocotyl. The consequences are that, compared with etiolated seedlings, much higher irradiances are required for phytochrome control in green plants, and the efficiency of 660 nm light is markedly reduced. Even very high exposures at 660 nm may not achieve appreciable photoconversion of P r to P fr.