CALORESPIROMETRIC STUDIES OF IN VITRO-GROWN CARNATION (DIANTHUS-CARYOPHYLLUS L. VAR. IMPROVED WHITE SIM) SHOOT TIPS

This study characterizes a potential model system for the use of calor espirometry to make rapid and non-destructive estimations of in vitro responses of carnation. Determinations of steady-state heat production rates, long-term heat rate stability, base trap limitations, effects of wounding and the predictions of dry mass accumulation using calores pirometric measurements were undertaken. Carnation shoot tips grown in vitro provide stable and adequately large heat production rates that vary linearly depending on dry mass. Wounding of tissues had inconsist ent effects on R-CO2, but greatly increased q. Linear relationships we re found between dry mass and both q and R-CO2.