Abscisic acid
Definition
Abscisic acid (ABA) is a plant hormone involved in many developmental processes and stress responses. It plays a crucial role in seed dormancy, stomatal closure, and adaptation to environmental stresses like drought.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Abscisic acid is vital for inducing seed dormancy and ensuring seeds remain dormant until conditions are optimal for germination.
- ABA promotes stomatal closure during water stress, helping plants minimize water loss through transpiration.
- It acts as a signaling molecule that enables plants to respond quickly to environmental stresses such as drought and high salinity.
- Abscisic acid inhibits cell growth and division, playing a key role in slowing down plant growth under unfavorable conditions.
- The biosynthesis of ABA mainly occurs in the plastids of cells, particularly in leaves when the plant experiences water deficit.
Review Questions
- How does abscisic acid help plants cope with drought conditions?
- What role does ABA play in seed dormancy?
- Where is abscisic acid primarily synthesized within plant cells?
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Related terms
Gibberellins: Plant hormones that promote stem elongation, seed germination, and fruit development.
Ethylene: A gaseous plant hormone involved in regulating fruit ripening, flower wilting, and leaf fall.
Cytokinins: Plant hormones that promote cell division, shoot formation, and delay leaf senescence.
