Chilling injury susceptibility
noun phrasePronunciation: /ˈtʃɪlɪŋ ˈɪndʒəri səˈsɛptɪbɪlɪti/
The cellular damage and loss of plant function occurring at temperatures above freezing (typically 0-15°C) that disrupt membrane organization and metabolic processes without causing ice crystal formation. Symptoms include necrosis, chlorosis, and reduced growth.
Plain English
Plant damage that occurs in cold conditions above freezing due to disruption of cellular processes and membranes.
Etymology & History
Usage
"Tropical crop cultivars exhibit high chilling injury susceptibility when stored below 10°C during postharvest handling."
Style guide notes: Specify temperature range and duration when characterizing chilling injury to enable reproducibility.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What causes chilling injury at non-freezing temperatures?
Cold temperatures disrupt membrane fluidity and enzyme function, causing reactive oxygen species accumulation and cellular dysfunction without ice formation.
How does chilling injury differ from freezing injury?
Chilling injury occurs above freezing through metabolic dysfunction, while freezing injury results from ice crystal formation damaging tissues.
Why Test Candidates on This?
Critical for postharvest management strategies and breeding cold-tolerant cultivars of tropical and subtropical crops.
Required skill level: Mid