Ethylene is a naturally occurring plant hormone that plays an important role in the growth and development of plants. It can affect a wide range of processes, including seed germination, fruit ripening, leaf senescence, and the response to stress.
One of the most well-known effects of ethylene in plants is its role in fruit ripening. As fruits mature, they produce increasing amounts of ethylene, which triggers the breakdown of chlorophyll and the formation of pigments that give fruits their characteristic color. Ethylene also causes the softening of the fruit, making it more palatable for animals to eat and for the seed inside to be dispersed.
Ethylene also plays a role in the senescence of leaves, which is the process of aging and eventual death of leaves. Ethylene can also promote the abscission, which is the shedding of leaves, fruits, and flowers.
In addition to its effects on fruit and leaf development, ethylene also plays a role in the plant's response to stress. For example, when a plant is exposed to high levels of stress, such as drought or high temperatures, it will produce more ethylene, which can help the plant to cope with the stress.
Ethylene can be applied artificially to plants as well, in order to promote or inhibit certain processes. For example, it can be used to ripen fruits more quickly or to inhibit the growth of leaves. It is used in horticulture, floriculture and agriculture.