In order to elucidate the metabolism of the peroxisomes during foliar senescence of leaf beet (Beta vulgaris L., var. cicla), peroxisomal activities have been determined at various stages of senescence. Catalase and hydroxypyruvate reductase activities decreased whereas those of the β-oxidation pathway and glyoxylate cycle enzymes increased at the same time. The increased activities of malate synthase, isocitrate lyase, malate dehydrogenase and citrate synthase indicate that the glyoxylate cycle might be activated during the foliar senescence of leaf beet.