Stimulation of Solute Loss from Radicles of Gossypium hirsutum L. by Chilling, Anaerobiosis, and Low pH.

The loss of organic substances from cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) radicles is enhanced by chilling, low pH, or anaerobic conditions. Solute loss returns to a low level when the stimulus is removed, indicating no permanent injury to membranes. Loss of solute induced by chilling or anaerobiosis is reversed or prevented by calcium or magnesium. These cations did not reduce the solute loss resulting from low pH. The site of loss appears to be localized at or near the root tip. If the seedling cotyledons are removed, the loss is greatly reduced, indicating the need for a reserve pool of organic substances.