Plant Physiology (Biology 327) - Dr. Stephen G. Saupe; College of St. Benedict/ St. John's University; Biology Department; Collegeville, MN 56321; (320) 363 - 2782; (320) 363 - 3202, fax; ssaupe@csbsju.edu |
Early Seedling Growth & Development
Objectives: The purpose of this lab
experience is to provide an opportunity to:
Exercise 1. Hypogaeous vs. Epigaeous
Germination
When some seeds germinate
the cotyledons remain underground (termed epigaeous) while in other species the cotyledons are
pushed above the ground (hypogaeous). In this examine the
germination of three species- maize, sunflower, and pea - and describe whether
the seedlings exhibit the epigaeous or hypogaeous pattern of germination.
Method: In a pot containing pre-moistened Jiffy-Mix, place three seeds each of the three species. Moisten the medium, label with your name and date, cover with plastic wrap, and place the pot in the light. After the seeds germinate, sketch or photograph the seedlings.
Assignment: Prepare a sketch or photograph comparing the three seedlings. Label each. Describe the differences between the three species. Be sure to indicate which are hypogaeous and epigaeous and the functional (physiological) significance of these differences.
Exercise
2. Grass vs. Eudicot Seedlings Early Development
In this exercise we will compare the early growth of maize or
oats (grasses) and radish. In each of two pots containing
pre-moistened Jiffy Mix plant three seeds each of corn (or oats) and radish. Moisten the medium, label with your name and date, cover with
plastic wrap. After several days, sketch or photograph the seedlings.
Describe the differences. Consider: how do the seedlings protect the
root and shoot meristems? How do the seedlings obtain nutrients before
they become photosynthetically active? What is the function of the
cotyledon?
| Top | SGS Home | CSB/SJU Home | Biology Dept | Biol 327 Home | Disclaimer | |
Last updated:
01/07/2009 � Copyright by SG
Saupe