Question

Give physiological role of ethylene.

Answer 1

Ethylene is regarded as a multifunctional phytohormone that regulates both growth, and senescence. It promotes or inhibits growth and senescence processes depending on its concentration, timing of application, and the plant species.

Answer 2

Physiological effects of ethylene:

• Seed and bud dormancy is broken by ethylene.
• Ethylene is an excellent ripening agent.
• During fruit ripening, ethylene increases the rate of respiration.
• Ethylene causes leaf and blossom senescence and abscission.
• Ethylene triggers flowering and controls numerous physiological processes.
• Ethylene causes peanut seeds to germinate and potato tubers to sprout.
• Ethylene also helps plants improve their absorption surface by promoting root growth and root hair synthesis.