Summary
Fertilized ovules from sugar beet, Beta vulgaris L., of different intra- and interspecific crosses have been grown under in situ and in vitro conditions and investigated by light microscopy. Selected anatomical parameters were observed and entered in a computer program for statistical treatment. After a few days in culture the cells of the inner integument epidermis develop reticulate wall thickenings and their content of tannins decrease. Likewise, the starch content in the outer integument decreases and no real seed coat is formed. The funiculus tissue increases its metabolic activity, i.e., abundant accumulation of protein and starch. Callus or callus-like proliferations develop in the nucellus and the suspensor, but only rarely in the embryo or endosperm. However, the embryo may show an irregular morphology. Very rapid metabolism of starch in the suspensor may be related to the ability of the embryo to survive the first days in culture. Generally, the cellular responses, most significant in the maternal sporophytic tissue and the suspensor rather than in the embryo and endosperm, can be explained as structural adaptations to alternative pathways of nutrient supply.
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Bruun, L. Histological and semi-quantitative approaches to in vitro cellular responses of ovule, embryo and endosperm in sugar beet, Beta vulgaris L.. Sexual Plant Reprod 4, 64–72 (1991). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00194574
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00194574