Sink-source relationship during ripening of cashew fruit (anacardium occidentale l.)

Abstract

Ripening of Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) fruit was studied, in relation to the sink – source relationship between mature leaves and developing fruits. Phloem translocation was observed by spraying water directly on the whole branch. This translocation was accompanied by major changes in the level of sucrose (product of photosynthesis) and plant growth regulators in fruits and pseudocarps. These substances could be rapidly transported via phloem from the leaves (source) to the fruits (sink). Roles of plant growth regulators in Cashew fruit development and phloem translocation were discussed.