Changes in Cell Fine Structure in the Cotyledons ofPhaseolus vulgarisL. during Germination

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Abstract
When germination begins, the storage cells of Phaseolus vulgaris cotyledons are packed with starch grains and protein bodies. Digestion of these reserves starts in cells furthest away from the vascular bundles and is practically completed in eight days at 25° C. After the reserves are hydrolysed, the storage cells die. The changes in fine structure during the process of digestion and protoplasmic breakdown are described. Vascular bundle and epidermal cells survive till the cotyledons absciss, but in these tissues also profound changes occur in cellular organization. The observations on fine structure are discussed with reference to the metabolic activities of the cotyledons.