Abstract
The respiration of yam tubers during storage is described. Respiration rate is dependent on the tag of dormancy of the tuber and upon the storage temperature. In healthy tubers respiratory activity accounts for about 30 per cent of weight loss at the time of harvest or sprouting, and approximately ten per cent of weight loss when dormant. Respiration rate varies between the proximal and distal ends of the tuber. When tubers are exposed to low temperature the respiratory rate is depressed, but on return to ambient temperatures if the tuber has been chilled, respiration is greater than that of the control.
