Zeatin

Definition

Zeatin is a type of cytokinin, which is a class of plant hormones that promote cell division and growth. It plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes in plants, such as shoot and root development, leaf expansion, and delaying senescence. By influencing cell differentiation and growth patterns, zeatin contributes to the overall health and productivity of plants.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Zeatin was first identified in maize (corn) as a natural cytokinin and has since been found in many other plants.
2. It is primarily synthesized in the roots and is transported to other parts of the plant where it stimulates growth and development.
3. Zeatin can help improve nutrient uptake and is known to enhance the efficiency of photosynthesis in plants.
4. This hormone is involved in regulating the timing of flowering and fruiting, making it important for agricultural practices.
5. Zeatin has been used in agricultural applications to promote plant growth and increase crop yields.

Review Questions

• How does zeatin influence plant growth and development compared to other types of plant hormones?
  • Zeatin specifically influences cell division and growth through its role as a cytokinin. Unlike auxins that primarily regulate cell elongation and differentiation, zeatin promotes lateral bud growth and leaf expansion. This unique function helps establish apical dominance, where the main stem outgrows side branches, ensuring that resources are directed toward the most vital parts of the plant. Overall, zeatin's effects are essential for optimizing both shoot and root development.
• Discuss the impact of zeatin on the aging process of plant tissues and how it can be utilized in agricultural practices.
  • Zeatin plays a significant role in delaying senescence, or aging, in plant tissues. By maintaining cellular activity longer, zeatin helps prolong leaf lifespan and overall plant vigor. In agriculture, this property can be utilized to enhance crop yield by applying zeatin to promote healthier foliage during critical growth stages. This can result in better nutrient uptake and improved photosynthetic efficiency, leading to higher productivity.
• Evaluate the potential benefits and drawbacks of using zeatin as a growth regulator in commercial agriculture.
  • Using zeatin as a growth regulator in commercial agriculture offers several benefits, such as increased crop yields, enhanced leaf longevity, and improved nutrient absorption. However, there are potential drawbacks to consider, including the risk of over-application leading to abnormal growth patterns or reduced quality of produce. Moreover, reliance on synthetic application may disrupt natural hormonal balance within plants. Therefore, careful management and understanding of zeatin's effects are crucial for maximizing its advantages while minimizing any negative impacts.

Related terms

Cytokinin: A class of plant hormones that promote cell division and growth, influencing various aspects of plant development.

Apical Dominance: The phenomenon where the main central stem of a plant grows more vigorously than other side stems, often regulated by cytokinins like zeatin.

Senescence: The process of aging in plants, which can be delayed by cytokinins, including zeatin, helping to prolong the life of leaves and other plant tissues.