In terms of energy efficiency, how do C4 plants compare to C3 plants?

C4 plants are indeed more energy-efficient in hot environments due to their unique photosynthetic pathway, which allows them to minimize photorespiration. In hot and dry conditions, C4 plants can effectively capture carbon dioxide and convert it into energy while reducing water loss through their stomata. This is achieved through a specialized anatomy and biochemistry that involves the initial fixation of carbon dioxide into a four-carbon compound before it enters the Calvin cycle, which is the pathway used by C3 plants.

C4 photosynthesis enables these plants to maintain higher rates of photosynthesis under stress conditions, such as elevated temperatures and limited water availability. As a result, C4 plants are often found in tropical and arid regions where these conditions prevail, allowing them to outcompete C3 plants in those environments. This adaptation gives C4 plants a significant advantage in efficiency regarding energy production and water use, contributing to their overall success in these habitats.