The concerted action of three enzymes is required for the catabolism of galac¬tomannan: a-galactosidase, endo-B-mannanase and B-mannosidase (McCleary, 1983). All three enzymes are produced in the aleurone layer on the outside of the endosperm. Following imbibition of fenugreek seeds, no breakdown of galactomannan takes place until a few hours after germination. Mobilization then starts next to the aleurone layer, proceeds throughout the endosperm and is complete in 24 h. This rapid mobilization of reserve wall material coin¬cides with an increase in the sucrose content of the embryo and the transitory appearance of starch in the embryo.