Zeatin

Definition

Zeatin is a type of cytokinin, a class of plant hormones that play essential roles in various growth and developmental processes. As a naturally occurring compound, zeatin promotes cell division, influences shoot and root development, and is involved in delaying leaf senescence. Its importance in plant physiology is underscored by its ability to interact with other hormones, contributing to the overall growth and response of plants to environmental stimuli.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Zeatin is primarily found in the seeds of maize (corn) and is most abundant during the early stages of growth.
2. It helps regulate apical dominance, promoting the growth of lateral buds when the primary shoot is removed or damaged.
3. Zeatin can delay leaf senescence by maintaining chlorophyll content, thereby enhancing photosynthesis and prolonging leaf life.
4. The production of zeatin is influenced by environmental factors such as light, temperature, and nutrient availability.
5. Zeatin can be used in agriculture as a growth regulator to improve crop yield and quality by enhancing cell division and delaying senescence.

Review Questions

• How does zeatin influence the process of apical dominance in plants?
  • Zeatin plays a crucial role in regulating apical dominance by promoting the growth of lateral buds while suppressing the growth of side shoots when the main shoot is intact. When the apical bud is removed or damaged, zeatin levels can increase in the remaining buds, allowing them to grow more vigorously. This shift helps the plant to adapt its growth strategy based on environmental conditions or injury.
• Discuss the relationship between zeatin and auxins in regulating plant growth.
  • Zeatin and auxins have a complex interaction that regulates various aspects of plant growth. Auxins promote cell elongation and root formation, while zeatin stimulates cell division and lateral bud development. Together, they help maintain the balance between root and shoot growth, ensuring that plants can effectively respond to environmental cues while optimizing their overall structure and resource allocation.
• Evaluate the potential applications of zeatin in agriculture for enhancing crop productivity.
  • Zeatin has significant potential applications in agriculture as a growth regulator due to its ability to enhance cell division and delay leaf senescence. By applying zeatin to crops, farmers can improve yield by promoting healthier growth, maintaining chlorophyll levels for better photosynthesis, and extending the productive life of leaves. Additionally, using zeatin can lead to increased stress resistance in plants under adverse conditions, contributing to improved agricultural sustainability.

Related terms

Cytokinins: A group of plant hormones that promote cell division, influence growth and development, and help regulate the balance between shoot and root development.

Auxins: A class of plant hormones that play a critical role in plant growth by promoting cell elongation, influencing root formation, and regulating various growth responses.

Gibberellins: A group of plant hormones that stimulate stem elongation, seed germination, and flowering, contributing to the overall growth and development of plants.