Abscisic Acid Sensitivity
nounPronunciation: /ˌæbˈsɪzɪk ˈæsɪd ˈsensɪtɪvɪti/
The responsiveness of plant tissues and cells to abscisic acid (ABA) signaling, determining the magnitude and speed of physiological adjustments to abiotic stress. Tissues with enhanced ABA sensitivity exhibit faster stomatal closure, accelerated abscission, and more rapid transcriptional responses to drought or salinity stress.
Plain English
How quickly and strongly plants respond to a stress hormone that triggers protective responses to drought and salt stress.
Etymology & History
Usage
"Enhanced ABA sensitivity in guard cells enables rapid stomatal closure before severe dehydration, conserving water and maintaining photosynthetic capacity."
Style guide notes: Distinguish between ABA sensitivity (responsiveness) and ABA accumulation (hormone levels) in stress physiology discussions.
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Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when ABA sensitivity is reduced in plants?
Plants cannot respond quickly to water deficit signals, leading to excessive water loss and delayed activation of drought tolerance mechanisms.
How does ABA sensitivity relate to drought tolerance?
Higher ABA sensitivity enables proactive water conservation through earlier stomatal closure, reducing water loss before critical stress develops.
Why Test Candidates on This?
Evaluated through stomatal conductance measurements under ABA application and gene expression analysis of ABA-responsive genes.
Required skill level: Mid