Importance of variety in ozone plant damage

Ozone is an air pollutant that causes considerable plant damage, particularly in the highly industrialized, densely populated areas of eastern US. Because the crops affected are of such economic importance, some solution to the problem is necessary. Ozone is created by photochemical reactions in the air involving oxides of nitrogen and hydrocarbons, both products of man's activities. Although an attempt is being made to reduce the hydrocarbons contributed by automobiles, the problem of NO/sub 2/ remains. Since specific varieties of certain susceptible plant species are able to withstand New Jersey's highly oxidized atmosphere, perhaps a partial answer to the problem lies in breeding plants compatible with the pollutants. 5 references, 2 tables.