Ethylene

Definition

Ethylene is a gaseous plant hormone that regulates various aspects of growth, development, and responses to stress. It is particularly known for its role in fruit ripening and leaf abscission.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ethylene promotes the ripening of fruits such as bananas, tomatoes, and apples.
2. It plays a crucial role in leaf abscission, helping plants shed leaves during unfavorable conditions.
3. Ethylene can inhibit stem elongation and promote the thickening of stems.
4. It is synthesized from the amino acid methionine.
5. Ethylene production increases in response to stress conditions like drought, flooding, or mechanical injury.

Review Questions

• What role does ethylene play in fruit ripening?
• How does ethylene affect leaf abscission?
• What environmental conditions can trigger increased ethylene production?

Related terms

Auxin: A plant hormone that regulates cell elongation and is involved in phototropism and gravitropism.

Gibberellins: Plant hormones that promote stem elongation, seed germination, and flowering.

Abscisic Acid (ABA): A plant hormone that helps regulate water balance by closing stomata and induces dormancy in seeds.