Distribution of 14carbon-labelled assimilates in flowering plants of oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.)

Abstract

SummaryA study has been made of the distribution of 14carbon-labelled assimilates in flowering oilseed rape plants. Up to 10 days after anthesis individual flowers were strong sinks for assimilates for 2 days after opening but thereafter became weak sinks for a period of 24 h. This period coincided with pollination and subsequent fertilization. After fertilization the young pods again became strong sinks. Between 13 and 16 days after anthesis other flower buds, flowers and young pods which had previously been strong sinks failed to attract assimilates and aborted. This fall in sink capacity occurred at about the same time on all branches and appeared to be co-ordinated on a whole-plant basis.