Grapevine genotypes as natural carbon sinks: contributions to reducing the carbon footprint in the context of climate change

Climate change necessitates the development of productive grapevine genotypes that contribute to atmospheric CO₂ sequestration. The present study evaluated the physiological characteristics and adaptive potential of genotypes of Vitis vinifera L. ssp. sylvestris, local varieties of V. vinifera ssp. sativa, interspecific genotypes (V. vinifera × Muscadinia rotundifolia), V. labrusca, and V. rupestris, in terms of CO2 assimilation capacity and water-use efficiency. Photosynthesis, transpiration, stomatal conductance, leaf temperature, and water-use efficiency were monitored with the PTM-48A station using the light saturation curve method for a minimum of 72 hours. The climatic trend demonstrated an increase in average temperature and a deficit of atmospheric precipitation for certain periods. It was found that within the temperature range of 28–29°C to 33–36°C, transpiration intensity increased and water use efficiency decreased in all studied genotypes, accompanied by a reduction in photosynthetic intensity. Local genotypes demonstrated a high-water loss coefficient, while interspecific genotypes, such as Ametist and Augustina, demonstrated a stable photosynthetic intensity and an increased water use coefficient. The results demonstrated that the vineyards functioned as an integrated photosynthetic system, and that it is necessary to develop productive interspecific grapevine genotypes with an enhanced potential for sequestering CO₂ from the atmosphere. Keywords: CO2 sequestration, climate change, grapevine genotypes, photosynthesis