What is the Difference Between Auxin and Gibberellin?

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Auxin and Gibberellin are two types of plant hormones that play crucial roles in various functions and developmental processes in plants. Here are the key differences between them:

  1. Structure: Auxins have a single or double unsaturated structure with a side chain, while Gibberellins have a saturated tetracyclic gibbane structure without a side chain.
  2. Location: Auxins are produced in higher plants, while Gibberellins are found in both higher plants and fungi.
  3. Functions: Auxins are responsible for elongation of the plant, root initiation, and the development of lateral buds. Gibberellins, on the other hand, are responsible for germination, seedling growth, breaking dormancy in seeds, and promoting flowering.
  4. Root Growth: Auxin promotes root formation, while Gibberellin does not promote rooting.
  5. Hormonal Effects: Auxin has a feminizing effect on some plants, while Gibberellin has a masculinizing effect on some plants.
  6. Transport: Auxin shows basipetal transport (from the tips of shoots and roots downwards), while Gibberellin shows both basipetal and acropetal transport (upwards from the base of the shoot).

In summary, Auxin and Gibberellin are plant hormones with distinct structures and functions, playing essential roles in various aspects of plant growth and development.

Comparative Table: Auxin vs Gibberellin

Auxin and Gibberellin are plant hormones that play crucial roles in plant growth and development. Here is a table comparing their differences:

Feature Auxin Gibberellin
Function Auxin stimulates shoot growth and plays a role in apical dominance. Gibberellin promotes stem elongation, germination, and blooming.
Structure Auxin has an unsaturated structure with a side chain, which can be single or double. Gibberellin has a saturated tetracyclic gibbane structure without a side chain.
Plant Type Auxin is found mainly in higher plants. Gibberellin is found in both higher plants and fungi.
Shoot Growth Auxin promotes shoot growth. Gibberellin does not promote shoot growth as auxin does.

Auxin and Gibberellin both play essential roles in plant growth, influencing various developmental processes, including elongation of the stem, seed germination, flowering, enzyme induction, and leaf and fruit senescence.