C¹⁴ Translocation pattern by single leaf feeding in two bunch genotypes of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)

Distribution of photosynthate from 2nd leaf from top and lowest leaf on either main shoot or branch—1, to the different sinks in the plant was estimated by feeding the leaf with ¹⁴CO₂ and estimating the ¹⁴C activity 24 hours after feeding in different plant organs on the 97th day after planting.

Study indicated that in bunch groundnut the per cent efflux of photosynthate was higher from the bottom leaf than the top leaf, however the total ¹⁴CO₂ fixation of the lowest leaf was less then top leaf. Top leaves of main shoot and branch-1 translocated a higher percentage to the apex, while the lower leaves contributed more to roots and nodules. The branch which bears the fed leaf retained as high as 59 per cent of the total activity, particularly the branch-1. Top leaves though situated away from reproductive organs translocated more phtosynthates to the developing pods than basal leaves.