Which term describes the aging process in plant tissues resulting in wilting and death?

Which term describes the aging process in plant tissues resulting in wilting and death?

• A. Germination
• B. Dormancy
• C. Senescence
• D. Propagation

Answer: (C)

Senescence describes the aging of plant tissues, a gradual decline that ultimately leads to tissue death. As cells age, their functions deteriorate, chlorophyll breaks down and is recycled, and nutrients are moved from aging parts to growing or developing parts. This process often brings about wilting because the aging tissue loses its ability to maintain turgor and normal water relations. It’s different from germination, which is the start of growth from a seed; from dormancy, which is a temporary halt in growth despite favorable conditions; and from propagation, which is the creation of new plants. So the aging of tissues that results in wilting and eventual death fits senescence.

Senescence describes the aging of plant tissues, a gradual decline that ultimately leads to tissue death. As cells age, their functions deteriorate, chlorophyll breaks down and is recycled, and nutrients are moved from aging parts to growing or developing parts. This process often brings about wilting because the aging tissue loses its ability to maintain turgor and normal water relations. It’s different from germination, which is the start of growth from a seed; from dormancy, which is a temporary halt in growth despite favorable conditions; and from propagation, which is the creation of new plants. So the aging of tissues that results in wilting and eventual death fits senescence.