The Physiology of Sugar-Cane II. The Respiration of Harvested Sugar-Cane

Abstract

The respiration drift of harvested sugar-cane, variety Pindar, was similar to t,hat of many fruits. Mechanical shock caused the respiration rate to rise over 16-24 hr to a maximum of 80 per cent. above the initial rate; the rate returned to the initial value during the next 72-120 hr. Corresponding changes occurred in the concentration of oxygen in the intercellular atmosphere. At death, only about 30 per cent. of the available carbohydrate had been used. Respiration reached a maximum rate between 37 and 45°C. Above 40°C the respiratory system soon became permanently damaged.