Abstract: | Abstract— Anthocyanin synthesis was measured in hypocotyl halves excised from Fagopyrum and Sinapis seedlings irradiated unilaterally or equilaterally with red or far-red light. Although no phototropic curvatures are produced by red or far-red exposure, a significant gradient in anthocyanin formation was observed for Fagopyrum seedlings and the trend for gradient formation is present in Sinapis seedlings. The gradient production in Fagopyrurn is correlated with this tissue's greater optical density. Since the intensities used do not inhibit elongation completely (through the phytochrome system) and an intensity gradient is present in the tissue (as evidenced by anthocyanin formation) it is concluded that (a) a steeper light gradient is required to induce phototropic curvatures or (b) a diffusible material affecting elongation growth prevents any differential from being established across the tissue. |