Effects of Abiotic Stress on Germination of Arabidopsis thaliana Seeds and Pollen.

Abstract

The goal of this study was to characterize the effects of abiotic stress upon Arabidopsis thaliana, a model organism often utilized in research pertaining to plant biology. Abiotic stress, identifiable as excessive amounts of a non-living factor in an environment, can cause significant damage to plant cells and inhibit successful growth. Such stresses include heat and drought. They are caused by climate change and extreme weather. The detrimental effects of abiotic stresses have had a profound impact on crops. Global crop yield has fallen over the past decade and global hunger rates have risen as a result. This may be combatted by conducting research on Arabidopsis thaliana to enable the global community to better understand the properties associated with abiotic stresses and their impacts on plants.