Both and CAM pathways are regarded as compromises. The reason for this would be:
| 1. | Both pathways lead to reduction of photosynthesis to enable water conservation. |
| 2. | To maintain high photosynthetic levels C4 compromises on water loss and CAM compromises on loss of carbon. |
| 3. | Both minimize photorespiration and optimize the Calvin cycle. |
| 4. | To maintain high photosynthetic levels CAM compromises on water loss and C4 compromises on loss of carbon. |