Abstract: The effects of sodium bisulfite on the cell division and growth of A. sativum seedlings were studied. The results showed that the mitotic index (MI)and growth speed increased when seedlings incubated in sodium bisulfite solution with lower concentration(0.2mmol/L). But seedlings growth slowed down when they incubated with higher concentrations(1.5 or 2.0mmol/L). Furthermore, SO₂ decreased MI significantly and induced abnormal division. At the same time cell cycle was delayed. The effects were dependent on the concentration and duration time.

Key words: Sodium bisulfite, Allium sativum, abnormal division, mitotic index