Ethylene-induced changes of chloroplast structure in satsuma mandarin (citrus unshiu marc.)

Abstract

Ethylene-induced changes of chloroplast structure in Satsuma mandarin (Citrus unshiu Marc.) were examined using light and electron microscopy. In ethylene-treated fruits, the number of chloroplasts decreased; this was especially remarkable in cells distant from the epidermis. Rapid reduction in chloroplast size was a characteristic feature.The inner membrane system of the chloroplasts of ethylene-treated fruits disintegrated prior to the disintegration of other cell structures. The disintegration of the membranes within the chloroplasts was expressed by the word "melt". The double-layered structure of lamellar and granal membranes was degraded and the membrane layers became separated.Another interesting feature was the appearance of finger-like protuberances and peripheral reticula in the chloroplasts of the ethylene-treated fruits. © 1978 Oxford University Press.