Carbohydrate and Protein Content of Boron-Deficient Tomato Root Tips in Relation to Anatomy and Growth

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Abstract
Roots of tomato seedlings in nutrient solution at 27[degree] grew at a constant, linear rate with B present. When B was omitted, elongation of roots ceased within 24 hours. Reduction in carbohydrate level in the root tips induced by shading the tops of B-deficient plants did not accentuate the effect of B deficiency upon growth, but tended to lessen it. Cessation of growth when B was deficient did not appear to be due to a deficiency in carbohydrates (or protein) in the root tips. B-deficient root tips showed higher dry weight and greater amounts of protein and carbohydrate per root tip than the controls. These differences in composition appear to reflect enhanced maturation of tissues, including development of short laterals closer to the root tips in the B-deficient plants.