Abscission and dehiscence in the squirting cucumber, <i>Ecballium elaterium</i>. Regulation by ethylene

Abstract

When treated with ethylene, mature fruits of the squirting cucumber (Ecballium elaterium (L.) A. Rich) abscind and dehisce prematurely. Abscission of male flowers is also accelerated by ethylene. Visible signs of senescence, a rise in ethylene production, and reduced carbon dioxide production always precede abscission or dehiscence in untreated fruits and flowers. The amounts of diffusible cellulase increase in tissues on both sides of the fruit abscission zone after exposure to ethylene. Anatomical features of this abscission zone are described.The leaves of Ecballium do not abscind although the blade and petiole produce large amounts of ethylene at senescence, nor do they separate when ethylene is supplied. Ethylene treatment of attached fruit peduncles accelerates their rate of elongation in the growing zone below the apical hook. The regulation of growth and abscission in these organs is discussed.