Effets du froid sur les stades précoces de développement du maïs (Zea mays L.) (synthèse bibliographique)

Effects of cold temperatures on the early stages of maize (Zea mays L.). A review. Introduction. Maize is a crop of great economical importance. Despite its tropical origin and its high sensitivity to low temperatures, maize is now cultivated in a wide range of latitudes. To maintain competitive yields, many genetic and agricultural adaptations have been implemented. Literature. Plant responses to environmental stresses such as drought or cold have been extensively studied. This article reviews the progress and current knowledge regarding the effects of non-freezing cold temperatures on maize plants, from germination to floral transition. During the early stages of development, cold alters plant phenology and productivity, mainly because of its negative impact on photosynthesis. Plant growth is affected and secondary osmotic and oxidative stresses induce cell damage. Conclusion. A better understanding of the effects of cold will allow the development of new strategies for improving plant tolerance through the use of various physiological, genetic and molecular approaches.