Abortive seed development in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)

INTRODUCTION Embryo defective mutants in Phaseolus vulgaris obtained by Ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) induction were studied to determine the structural and molecular basis of seed abortion in this species. In the wild-type, the classical pattern of seed development showed coordinated differentiation of the embryo proper, suspensor, endosperm tissue, and seed coat. On the contrarily, EMS mutant showed disruption in the normal seed development leading to embryo abortion. Most studies are limited to the early stages of embryo development (1). Little is known concerning the maturation process of the embryo or seed development. The present study was therefore undertaken firstly to detail the structural pattern of embryo development and secondly to investigate the structural basis of embryo abortion in common bean.