Characterization of globoids and iron-rich particles in cotyledons of Pinusbanksiana seeds and seedlings

Abstract

The cotyledons of Pinusbanksiana Lamb, from dry seeds and seedlings were studied for differences in the elements present in globoids. Globoids are mineral nutrient storage bodies. Parallel studies were conducted on iron-rich particles. A comparison of globoids from cotyledons of dry seeds with those of seedlings found that P, K, and Mg levels declined markedly, while Ca, Fe, Zn, and Mn levels increased significantly. A comparison of iron-rich particles showed that levels of P, K, Mg, and Ca changed, while Fe, Zn, and Mn remained unchanged. The iron-rich particles persisted during cotyledon greening and were definitely located in chloroplasts. This is the first report of such particles in chloroplasts of conifers.