Translocation and Distribution of ¹⁴C-labelled Assimilate associated with Growth of Jute (Corchorus olitorius L.)

Abstract

Assimilate translocation from different source leaves and the partitioning of whole plant photosynthates at different growth stages of jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) was studied in the field using I4CO,. The I4C assimilates from the terminal source leaves were translocated to the apical bud and to other developing leaves at the top of the plant while the middle leaves supplied only the adjacent stem sections. The lower leaves exported to the basal internodes and the roots. Removal of all the leaves excepting the six terminal ones reduced but did not stop apical growth, but checked the growth in stem diameter completely. The results are discussed in relation to what is known of the general pattern of jute growth by the apical meristem and the cambium. The I4C assimilated by the whole plant was translocated to and accumulated in the parts according to their mode of development. The carbon assimilated at 40 days from sowing was distributed mainly to the leaves, but at 62 days it was distributed almost equally to the leaves, wood and bark. The carbon assimilated at 105 days accumulated to the greatest extent in the wood. Distribution of assimilate to the bark, which produces the yield of jute, was best during the early stages, increased to a maximum during the second month but declined again at the later stages.