Etiolation in Action

     Author: Joseph T Carr

This time-lapse video documents the growth of sunflower seedlings that were initially kept in complete darkness. As a result of this treatment, the seedlings were spindly, had apical hooks, and lacked chlorophyll, a condition known as etiolation. Several days after germination, the seedlings were exposed to light. While they recovered somewhat, developing chlorophyll and losing their apical hooks, they remained spindly because the light levels were too low for normal growth.