ASPECTS REGARDING MITOTIC ACTIVITY IN SOME PEA GENOTYPES CULTIVATED ON CHERNOZEM SOIL AT SCDA CARACAL

Abstract

Mitotic division is the process of cell growth and division that allows a plant to develop from a single cell into a mature plant. This study presents several aspects regarding mitotic activity in some pea genotypes cultivated on chernozem soil at SCDA Caracal. The mitotic index can fluctuate throughout the day, often showing peaks at certain times due to daily rhythms in cell division activity. The mitotic activity in pea root meristems was variable, and indicate values ranging from 4.6% to 8.9%, depending on the genotype and time. Thus, the most intense mitotic activity was recorded around 8 am, while the lowest value was recorded at 2 pm. The increased mitotic activity in the morning indicates that cell division is most active during this period, potentially in response to light or other diurnal cycles. The lowest rate of cell division at 2 pm suggests a period of relative dormancy for the meristematic cells. The observed pattern is typical for plants, as many biological processes, including cell division, are regulated by a circadian rhythm. Factors like light and temperature fluctuations can also play a role in regulating this rhythm. The mitotic index can be used to assess the growth potential of different pea genotypes.