Control of development in plants and fungi by far‐UV radiation

Far‐UV (200–320 nm) radiation regulates development in plants and fungi. Some of these responses are controlled by a chromophore which absorbs strongly near 260 nm, possibly a nucleic acid. Other responses are controlled by a chromophore(s). with maximal in vivo sensitivity near 295 nm. In plants. far‐UV induces genes in the phenylpropanoid pathway and the synthesis of phytoalexins and flavonoids. Far‐UV also regulates growth rate. controls curvature and taxis, and stimulates sexual and asexual morphogenesis of fungi. Some of these developmental responses may prevent damage by far‐UV radiation.