Respiration and plasma membrane ATPase in strawberry stolons

The biochemical, physiological and anatomical properties of strawberry (Fragaria ananassa Duch.) cv. 'Cambridge Favourite' stolons were studied during growth. ATPase activity was measured, in microsomal and plasma membrane fractions, along with chlorophyll determination, in-situ photosynthesis measurements and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray microanalysis of stolon cross-sections. Potassium-stimulated ATPase activity and proton-pumping, both together indicating the presence of plasma membrane ATPase, was greatest in the stolon tip, the tissue with the fastest growth and respiratory activity. The enzyme activity and respiration gradient from the tip of the stolon to the base was concomitant with xylem development which was more differentiated in the base than in the tip. These cross-sections also showed 30% greater amounts of calcium and potassium of the cryo-preserved basal part relative to the stolon tip. This gradient existed independent of the presence of daughter plants. A hypothesis is presented which suggests that for the long-distance longitudinal transport of nutrients this gradient between stolon tip and base is likely to be involved in stolon growth.