Structural and functional characteristics of fruits of Malus domestica (Rosaceae), in connection with adaptation to mountain conditions

Abstract

Structural and functional features of Malus domestica Borkh cells cultured in Kabardino-Balkaria at different altitudes were studied. It is shown that the conditions for the growth of fruit trees have a significant effect on the structural organization and functional characteristics of the cells. The adaptive value of the mountain fruits of the complexes - the "triad" of the three organelles - chloroplasts, mitochondria and peroxisomes - is being discussed in the work. Most likely "triad" is of an adaptive nature, it helps protect the fruits from high UV radiation and sudden temperature fluctuations, increasing their antioxidant status.