Stomata of apple leaves cultured in vitro

Abstract

Examination by scanning electron microscopy showed abaxial stomata on in vitro cultured apple (Malus pumila Mill.) leaves. With leaf ontogeny, most of these stomata appeared to lose their regulatory ability while developing wide vestibules of up to 20 μm in diameter. It is proposed that these deformed stomata may be a possible cause for the excessive transpirational water loss and consequent dehydration associated with transferring plants regenerated in vitro from culture.