Translocation and distribution of 14C-photosynthate in asparagus bean [vigna unguiculata W. ssp. sesquipedals (L.) Verd]

Photosynthate translocation and distribution were studied by feeding 14CO2 on different leaf position during vegetative and reproductive periods in asparagus bean, cv. Jinsui and New-green. Radioactivity were measured in different organs after leaves being labelled 24 hours. The results showed that photosynthate export rate was lower (54.85%) during vegetative period and it was higher (average 88.74%) during reproductive period and increased with the rise of leaf position. Photosynthate were translated to both upper and lower organs during vegetative period, more than 95% of photosynthate was transported to stem and leaf. During reproductive period, photosynthate of leaf on upper, middle, lower leaf position were transported to each organ, mainly to pod, few to others. Photosynthate was mainly transported to nearby pods. Distribution of photosynthate was mainly controlled by podding condition and development of pods