Electron Microscopic Structure of the Epithelial Cells of the Scutellum of Barley Ii

During the germination of barley, the epidermal cells of the scutellum detach themselves from one another and grow to twice their former length. Aleuron proteins are dissolved in the first 3–4 days and subsequently the lipid contents of the spherosomes are digested. This coincides with the development and temporarily increased activity of all metabolic organelles, viz. endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, dictyosomes (Golgi apparatus) and leucoplasts. After ten days aqueous vacuoles have developed. After 21 days the cell organelles are smaller and fewer, though some spherosomes are still present.