Changes in starch distribution within an embryonic shoot of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) before resumption of mitotic activity

The above results supplemented earlier research on the structure and development of Norway spruce embryonic shoots and focuses on changes in starch distribution in winter and early spring. Starch accumulation and mobilization is characteristic of cells that play an important role in morphogenesis. The observed starch distribution within an embryonic shoot suggests that starch indicates the places of future mitotic and morphogenetic activities of the developing shoot. Changes of the rate of starch accumulation in a bud are affected by temperature. This study showed that especially important are the course of temperature fluctuations.