Dove orchid (Dendrobium crumenatum) is a wild orchid commonly found around
Thailand. It has a distinct short vase life approximately 2-3 days. This character is
advantage for an investigation into orchid senescence. In this study, we examined the
expression of 2 genes in ethylene synthesis, 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid
synthase (AGS) 1 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid oxidase (AGO) and ethylene
receptor namely ethylene response sensor (ERS) during flower development and
senescence. The expression pattern was determined using quantitative RT-PGR. The
elevation of Den-ACS expression was coincided with flower senescence stage. The
expression of Den-ERS, on the other hand, was correlated with the flower development.
The results indicate that Den-AGS might be a key enzyme in flower senescence of
Dendrobium crumenatum orchid. The expression of Den-ERS 1 conversely, was correlated
with the flower development and its decline signaled of the termination of flower
development. Dove orchid, therefore, could hold a special place as an orchid model for
physiological study particularly in flower senescence.