Density of stomata?

Question

Is the density of stomata determined gentetically or determined by the factors of environment?

Can you explain one of the factors and how would you carry out the experiment?

If you can help me, I will really appriciate.

Thank you very much!!

Answer 1

If your mean 'density' in terms of  the number of stomatal pores present in leaves. This is of course always determined by genetics. However, the environmental conditions will play a role in how well the plant can grow full sized leaves. Arid or drought conditions will limit the proper growth of leaves hence smaller leaves therefore less stomata.  An experiment is easily done, germinate some seeds, a control group of normal conditions, ideal conditions and either water/sunlight/nutrient/CO2 deficient conditions and count the number of stomata present on a equal sample of leaves.