Post-fertilization growth and development

Abstract

This chapter deals with post-double-fertilization growth and development in the angiosperms, particularly emphasizing the molecular genetic aspects. The patternized development of mature embryo starts with the polarized zygote. The importance of maternal gene control on early embryogeny and on endosperm development is highlighted. The nonmaternal genetic control of embryogenesis, laying emphasis on pattern genes, and endosperm development is also discussed in detail. Particular attention is also focused on histological differentiation of the embryo, an aspect that was paid least attention in the past. The physical and chemical factors involved in fruit development and ripening are discussed; also discussed are the genetic control of fruit development and ripening. The importance of chalaza in seed development, not focused much in the past, is also detailed in this chapter.