Unlock the Secrets of Plant Growth: Ethylene Agricultural Sources and Applications

Ethylene, a gaseous plant hormone, plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes throughout the plant kingdom. Its versatile functions range from promoting fruit ripening and senescence to triggering defense responses against biotic and abiotic stresses. In the agricultural sector, harnessing the power of ethylene has led to significant advancements in crop production, postharvest handling, and pest management.

Agricultural Sources of Ethylene

Ethylene is naturally produced by plants through several metabolic pathways, particularly during fruit ripening, leaf senescence, and flower opening. However, exogenous sources of ethylene can also be utilized in agricultural practices to achieve specific objectives.

Ethylene: Agricultural Sources and Applications

by Muhammad Arshad

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5825 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	355 pages

FREE

Combustion Byproducts

Incomplete combustion of fossil fuels and biomass releases ethylene into the atmosphere. This unintentional source can contribute to elevated ethylene levels in enclosed environments, such as greenhouses and storage facilities.

Industrial Sources

Ethylene is a major petrochemical feedstock used in the production of plastics, solvents, and other industrial products. As a byproduct of these processes, ethylene is released into the environment and can potentially impact agricultural systems.

Plant Growth Regulators

Synthetic ethylene-releasing compounds, known as plant growth regulators (PGRs),are commercially available for agricultural use. Ethrel (ethephon) and silver thiosulfate are widely used PGRs that generate ethylene upon application to plants.

Applications of Ethylene in Agriculture

The controlled application of ethylene or ethylene-releasing compounds has a range of beneficial applications in agricultural settings.

Fruit Ripening and Quality Enhancement

Ethylene is a key factor in fruit ripening, promoting the development of desirable flavors, colors, and aromas. Controlled exposure to ethylene during the postharvest period can optimize ripening and improve fruit quality.

Senescence Control

Ethylene plays a role in leaf senescence, leading to the breakdown of chlorophyll and nutrient translocation from leaves to other plant parts. Targeted application of ethylene can hasten leaf senescence in certain crops, facilitating harvest operations and reducing disease risk.

Flowering and Fruit Set

In some crops, ethylene is involved in flowering induction and fruit set. Mango trees, for instance, require a brief exposure to ethylene to promote flowering and fruit development.

Stress Tolerance

Ethylene can enhance plant tolerance to environmental stresses, including drought, heat, and cold. Pre-treatment with ethylene or ethylene-releasing compounds can mitigate adverse effects and improve plant resilience.

Pest and Disease Management

Ethylene has been shown to have insecticidal and fungicidal properties. Its application can suppress certain pests and diseases, reducing the reliance on synthetic pesticides and fungicides.

Environmental Considerations

While ethylene has numerous agricultural benefits, its uncontrolled release can pose environmental concerns. Elevated levels of ethylene in the atmosphere can contribute to smog formation and ozone depletion. Additionally, excessive ethylene exposure in enclosed environments can lead to phytotoxicity in sensitive plant species.

Ethylene, a multifaceted plant hormone, has a profound impact on plant growth and development. Controlled application of ethylene or ethylene-releasing compounds offers significant agricultural advantages, including improved fruit quality, enhanced stress tolerance, and effective pest and disease management. However, it is crucial to consider environmental implications and optimize ethylene management practices to maximize its benefits while minimizing potential risks.

Alt Attribute for Images

* Image 1: A photo of ripening tomatoes, showcasing the role of ethylene in fruit development. * Image 2: A diagram depicting various agricultural sources of ethylene, including combustion byproducts, industrial emissions, and plant growth regulators. * Image 3: A close-up of a plant treated with an ethylene-releasing compound, demonstrating accelerated leaf senescence. * Image 4: A graph illustrating the effects of ethylene pre-treatment on plant tolerance to abiotic stresses, such as drought and heat. * Image 5: A table summarizing the applications of ethylene in agriculture, highlighting its benefits and potential environmental considerations.

Ethylene: Agricultural Sources and Applications

by Muhammad Arshad

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5825 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	355 pages

FREE