Nuclear dna variability within pisum sativum (Leguminosae): Nucleotypic effects on plant growth

Abstract

Nuclear DNA content variability was established among seven cultivars of experimental lines of pea (Pisum sativum L.) by means of Feulgen cytophotometry. In order to study the phenotypic effects of such DNA content variation, different parameters were tested. A positive correlation with root and stem growth was determined during the first developmental stages after germination. In particular, differential response in plant growth seemed to be correlated with differences in enlargement of cells preexisting in the embryo, while no difference was observed in mitotic activity. The results are discussed in relation to the effects of nucleotype on cell and plant growth. © 1993 The Genetical Society of Great Britain.