Apical Dominance and the Utilization of Carbo-hydrates During Storage of Potato Tubers

Abstract

Although carbohydrates are metabolized throughout potato tubers during storage, it would nevertheless appear as if there is enhanced carbohydrate metabolism in the region of the apical bud. Soluble sugars are higher in this region of the tuber during the whole period of storage and growth. In the sprouts themselves glucose accumulates to extremely high levels. It is postulated that this glucose is pooled and is eventually used for the synthesis of starch, especially during the development of ‘little potatoes’ which occurs during prolonged storage at low temperature in the dark.