Compositional Changes of Douglas Fir Seeds During Germination

Abstract

Changes in weight, water content, nucleic acids, nucleotides, carbohydrates, lipids, nitrogenous and phosphorus compounds in embryo and gametophyte of Douglas fir seeds (Pseudotsuga menziesii Franco) were studied at 6 stages of germination. Lipids, proteins, and reserve phosphorus compounds in the gametophyte were utilized for the synthesis of carbohydrates, structural components, and soluble compounds in the seedling.The general quantitative metabolic changes that occur during germination of Douglas fir seeds are comparable to those known for angiosperm seeds.