Distribution of fatty acids during germination of cottonseeds.

Gas chromatographic determination of the fatty acids in the seeds of cottonseed (Gossypium sp.) showed linoleic, palmitic, oleic, and stearic acids, with linoleic acid being the major component. Changes in the composition of fatty acids during various stages of germination were measured in the cotyledons and in the roots. A decrease in the content of all the fatty acids and an 8-fold increase in the moisture content of the cotyledons were observed during the 10 days of germination. There were no significant changes in the fatty acid contents of the roots with the exception of those in linoleic acid which increased by 50 percent during 4-10 days of germination. The possible significance of these changes is discussed.