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The present study evaluated, through physical and physiological tests, the seed quality of a landrace fava bean variety in different packaging materials and storage periods, aiming to guarantee the conservation of their quality in seed banks and facilities. The methodology used was the one recommended by the Rules for Seed Analysis (RAS - Brasil, 2009) and minimum descriptors for Phaseolus lunatus L. The data were subjected to analysis of variance by the F-test at 5% signififance to verify the presence of significant interactions and the individual effects of each treatment. The test of multiple comparison of means was performed by the Tukey test at 5% significance between common treatments. The Dunnett test was used at 5% significance to compare the control means with the means of the treatments. R egression analysis was performed to study the effect of storage on the variables evaluated. All analyses were performed using the R software. From the results, it can be concluded that the storage of fava bean seeds is viable in small rural properties in impermeable packaging materials and aluminized polyethylene bags. The germination and vigor of the seeds analyzed in this study decreased throughout the storage period regardless of the type of packaging used. It is not recommended to store fava bean seeds in permeable paper packaging as they have the lowest quality indices (germination and vigor) at the end of the storage period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To preserve germination ability, plant seeds must be protected from environmental stresses during the storage period. Here, we demonstrate that autophagy, an intracellular degradation system, maintains seed germination ability in Arabidopsis thaliana. The germination ability of long-term (>5 years) stored dry seeds of autophagy-defective (atg) mutant and wild-type (WT) plants was compared. Long-term stored (old) seeds of atg mutants showed lower germination ability than WT seeds, although short-term stored (new) seeds of atg mutants did not show such a phenotype. After removal of the seed coat and endosperm from old atg mutant seeds, the embryos developed into seedlings. Autophagic flux was maintained in endosperm cells during the storage period, and autophagy defect resulted in the accumulation of oxidized proteins and accelerated endosperm cell death. Consistent with these findings, the transcripts of genes, ENDO-β-MANNANASE 7 and EXPANSIN 2, which are responsible for degradation/ remodeling of the endosperm cell wall during germination, were reduced in old atg mutant seeds. We conclude that autophagy maintains endosperm quality during seed storage by suppressing aging-dependent oxidative damage and cell death, which allows the endosperm to perform optimal functions during germination, i.e., cell wall degradation/remodeling, even after long-term storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Groundnut seeds are highly sensitive to deterioration mainly due to their chemical composition and moisture content. The high oil content and fatty acids of groundnut seeds reduces the seed viability well in advance due to lipid peroxidation process, which is the most frequent cause of seed ageing. As a result, not only lipid peroxidation, but also a series of reactions that produce toxic products occur. Stored seeds produce increased level of volatile organic compounds that leads to seed deterioration. Methods: The experiment was conducted to profile volatile organic compounds emitted from groundnut seeds during storage and also to analysis the volatile organic compounds through correlation and principal component analysis method. Volatile organic compounds profiling of stored groundnut seeds was done through Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The air sample was taken at monthly intervals from the glass bottle using solid-phase micro extraction (SPME) method. Result: The results of the study clearly demonstrated that, totally 52 volatile compounds comprising of 10 alcohols, 5 aldehydes, 15 acids, 9 esters, 7 alkanes, 3 alkenes, 2 ketones and 1 ether were trapped in stored groundnut seeds. Finally the study concluded that ethanol, 1-butanol, 1-hexanol, acetaldehyde, hexanal, Nonenal, 9,12,15-octadecatrionic acid, acetic acid and 3-methyl acetate were found to be highly negatively correlated with seed germination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed vigor is an important aspect of seed quality. It is critical to predict seed vigor and plant seedling emergence under diverse environmental conditions using the laboratory vigor test. Accordingly, laboratory experiments were conducted to determine the standard germination (SG), early individual counts of radicle emergence (RE), mean germination time (MGT), and vigor index (VI) for 16 commercially available seed lots of Siberian wildrye (Elymus sibiricus), an economically and ecological important grass species. The field emergence (FE) for seed lots was explored using a three-year field trial from 2021 to 2023. Meanwhile, pot experiments were carried out to determine the seedling emergence performance under different environmental conditions, including control, drought, and salinity stress. The correlation and regression analysis were done to investigate the links between laboratory vigor test with emergence performance under both field and pot conditions. The results showed that the SG of 16 seed lots were high, similar, and did not differ significantly between seed lots. However, the seedling emergence performance (emergence percentage, seedling dry weight, and simplified vigor index) differed significantly between seed lots under both field and pot conditions. The SG was not significantly correlated with seedling emergence performance under either the field or pot conditions. The counts of RE at selected timing, MGT, and VI showed a significant relationship with seed vigor as reflected by seedling emergence performance under diverse environmental conditions, and we found that RE at 108 h was highly predictive of seed vigor and seedling emergence. The RE at 108 h and VI were positively related to seed vigor, while MGT was negatively related. The seed lots with low vigor had lower RE at 108 h and VI but longer MGT. Overall, both RE at 108 h, MGT, and VI can be used to estimate seed vigor and predict seedling emergence under different environmental conditions, and we highly recommend RE at 108 h as a quick, precise, and convenient vigor test and early warning sign for seed storage of E. sibiricus. These results will enable seed researchers, plant breeders, farmers, and government program directors to target higher seed vigor more effectively for E. sibiricus and similar grass species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The glutelins are a family of abundant plant proteins comprised of four glutelin subfamilies (GluA, GluB, GluC, and GluD) encoded by 15 genes. In this study, expression of subsets of rice glutelins were suppressed using CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing technology to generate three transgenic rice variant lines, GluA1, GluB2, and GluC1. Suppression of the targeted glutelin genes was confirmed by SDS-PAGE, Western blot, and q-RT-PCR. Transgenic rice variants GluA1, GluB2, and GluC1 showed reduced amylose and starch content, increased prolamine content, reduced grain weight, and irregularly shaped protein aggregates/protein bodies in mature seeds. Targeted transcriptional profiling of immature seeds was performed with a focus on genes associated with grain quality, starch content, and grain weight, and the results were analyzed using the Pearson correlation test (requiring correlation coefficient absolute value ≥ 0.7 for significance). Significantly up- or down-regulated genes were associated with gene ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway functional annotations related to RNA processing (spliceosomal RNAs, group II catalytic introns, small nucleolar RNAs, microRNAs), as well as protein translation (transfer RNA, ribosomal RNA and other ribosome and translation factors). These results suggest that rice glutelin genes may interact during seed development with genes that regulate synthesis of starch and seed storage proteins and modulate their expression via post-transcriptional and translational mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pea (Pisum sativum L.) is an important leguminous crop utilized as vegetable and pulse, being an important source of proteins. Pea seeds harbour various mycoflora both in field and during storage, which plays important role in reducing seed viability, germination and vigour inflicting considerable losses in yield and quality. There is scarcely any recommendation available to maintain seed quality during storage of pea seeds, hence present study was carried out. Methods: Seeds of pea (cvs. Azad P. 1 and Arkel) were treated with Captan and Carbendazim 50%WP fungicides @ 2.0 g/kg seed and stored under ambient conditions. The samples were drawn at three months interval to assess the effect of storage on seed quality parameters. The vigour index I, per cent germination and speed of germination of these seed samples were determined using ISTA rules. The detection of associated mycoflora in pea (Pisum sativum L.) seed samples was carried out by standard blotter method as recommended by International Seed Testing Association. Result: Total fourteen fungal species were found associated with different pea seed samples. Out of these, maximum incidence of Alternaria alternata (21.36%) followed by Aspergillus flavus (15.53%), A. fumigatus (14.56%), A. niger (11.60%) and Rhizopus stolonifer (9.71%), were recorded on untreated seed of pea cv. Azad P. 1, after 18 months of storage. The germination, speed of germination and vigour index of stored seed reduced with increase in storage period, whereas fungal incidence increased with the increasing storage period. Among the tested cultivars, germination in pea (cv. Arkel) remained above IMSCS even after 18 months of storage under ambient storage conditions. The maximum per cent germination (99.0) was found in pea cv. Azad P. 1 seeds treated with Captan at 3 months of storage, whereas minimum per cent germination (49.5) was found in untreated seed of pea cv. Azad P. 1 after 18 months of storage. The maximum speed of germination (23.88) was found in Captan treated seed of pea cv. Arkel at 0 month of storage and minimum speed of germination (3.52) was found in untreated seed of pea cv. Azad P. 1 at 18 months of storage. The maximum vigour index I (2339) was found in pea cv. Azad P. 1 (Captan treated seed) at 3 months of storage and minimum vigour index I (431) was found in untreated seed of pea cv. Azad P. 1 after 18 months of storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world is witnessing massive land degradation caused by climate change and various anthropogenic activities. There has been a significant increase in habitat restoration efforts, with demand for seeds to restore these degraded ecosystems in some cases outstripping supply. Traditionally, seeds for restoration activities have mainly been sourced through collections from the wild, but with the growing seed demand, this is increasingly becoming unsustainable. In order to ensure responsible restoration practice, restoration practitioners need to explore other options of economical, ethical and sustainable sourcing of seeds. Ex situ seed banks can leverage their technical and infrastructural capacity to play a greater and more direct role in supporting biodiversity and ecosystem conservation and restoration, particularly through the supply of quality ecologically and genetically suitable seed. In this paper, we review whether ex situ seed banks possess the capacity and competence for supporting habitat restoration and the challenges they are likely to face in these efforts. The review focuses on seed collecting, field-based seed bulking, seed handling and storage, seed quality control as well as experience and capacity in facilitating germplasm exchange. The availability of high-quality germplasm collections of documented provenance and with broad genetic diversity is arguably the greatest resource and asset that seed banks have in supporting habitat restoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pulses are very crucial to meet the requirements of dietary proteins in the human diet especially for the predominantly vegetarian population in India. Pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] and chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) are important pulses grown in India. The seeds of these crops are highly vulnerable to various microorganisms, both in the field and during storage, which play an important role in reducing the seed viability, germination and vigour causing considerable loss in yield and quality. There is no suitable recommendation available to maintain seed quality during storage of pulses, hence present study was undertaken. Methods: Seeds of pigeonpea and chickpea were treated with Captan and Carbendazim 50% WP fungicides @ 2.0 g/Kg of seed and stored under ambient condition. The samples were drawn at three months interval to assess the effect of storage on seed quality parameters. The vigour index I, seed germination and speed of germination of these seed samples were determined using ISTA rules. The detection of seed mycoflora in pigeonpea and chickpea seed samples was carried out by the blotter test as recommended by the International Seed Testing Association. Result: Total sixteen fungal species were recorded on stored seeds. Maximum incidence of Aspergillus fumigatus (19.83%), A. flavus (14.88%), A. niger (12.40%), Alternaria alternata (11.57%), Fusarium oxysporum (8.26%), Rhizopus stolonifer (7.44%) and Penicillium notatum (5.79%) were recorded on untreated seed of pigeonpea cv. P. 2001 after 18 months of storage. The per cent germination, speed of germination and vigour index of the stored seeds decreased with the increase in the storage period whereas the total number of fungi increased with the storage period, irrespective of treatments. Among the tested cultivars, germination in pigeonpea (cv. P. 991) remained above IMSCS (>75%) upto 18 months of storage under ambient storage condition. However, the germination of pigeonpea cv. P. 2001 seed could be maintained above IMSCS (>75%) up to 12 months only. In chickpea (local cultivar) seed, the germination remained above IMSCS (>85%) up to 9 months only under ambient storage, however seed treatment with either Captan or Carbendazim could prolong the longevity upto 12 months of storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Seed is an important component and the quality seed plays a crucial role in agricultural production as well as in the national economy. Availability of viable and vigorous seeds at the planting time is important. Onion seeds have a short life span among the vegetable crops and lose viability rapidly after harvest. The main reason for the low quality of onion seeds includes a long flowering period resulting in different stages of seed maturity in the umbel, very fast reduction of viability if stored in suboptimal conditions and seed infestation with fungi. Seed priming is a widely used technique to enhance seed performance during storage. Methods: The seed was primed with Neem leaf powder (100 g/kg) after hydration and dehydration, hydration with KH2PO4 (2.0%), KNO3 (1.0%), K2SO4 (1.0%) and Captan (N-trichloromethylthio-4-cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboximide) at 2.5 g/kg and stored in polyethylene (100µ) bags under ambient conditions. After each treatment, seeds were dried back to their original moisture content under shade. Result: The results revealed that different priming treatments had a significant effect on germination percentage, seedling length and vigour index-I except for moisture percentage in both the years. The maximum germination (74.1 and 71.2%) was observed in seeds treated with Captan (2.5 g/kg) followed by Neem leaf powder 100 g/kg seed (71.1 and 69.72%) during 2014-15 and 2015-16, respectively. The onion seeds primed with KH2PO4 (2.0%), KNO3 (1.0%) and K2SO4 (1.0%) had an adverse effect on seed germination. The germination decreased significantly with the increase in the storage period. The maximum seedling emergence (60.0%) was observed from the seed primed with Captan (2.5 g/kg) followed by Neem leaf powder 100 g/kg seed (56.1%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Evaluation of the nutritional composition of genetically modified (GM) crops is mandatory for their deregulation. Chickpea is known for its high-quality protein and demonstrating that the seed protein quality of transgenic chickpea remains unaltered is important for its acceptance. Amino acid content, seed storage protein profile and the digestibility of chickpea protein are important determinants of seed protein quality. Thus, in the present study, we assessed the effect of Bt (Cry2Aa) gene expression on the Bt chickpea seed protein quality. Methods: We assessed the amino acid profile, in vitro protein digestibility and factors affecting protein digestibility like trypsin inhibitor, tannins and phytic acid contents of the transgenic Bt chickpea expressing a codon modified Cry2Aa gene and its nontransgenic counterpart. Furthermore, the seed storage proteins were also fractionated and separated on SDS-PAGE followed by mass spectroscopy of the major peptides. Result: Amino acid profile and factors affecting protein digestibility revealed no significant variations between transgenic and nontransgenic chickpeas. Seed storage protein profile confirmed the presence of legumin, vicilin and albumin. No potential change in the digestibility pattern of seed proteins was revealed. Our findings suggest no potential unintended changes in chickpea seed protein quality due to the expression of Cry2Aa gene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cumulative oxidation of cellular macromolecules during storage reduces seed longevity. This study was undertaken to unravel the physiological and biochemical changes in rice seeds that contribute to deterioration during storage. Rice seeds maintained at three different seed moisture contents (SMC; 10, 12 and 14%) were stored in airtight glass jars. Half of the jars were flushed with nitrogen gas to provide modified oxygen conditions, while the other half were sealed with natural air (21% O2). Seed quality in terms of germination and antioxidant defence mechanisms was monitored after 3 and 6 months of storage at 25°C. The results showed that seeds performed better when stored at low SMC (10 and 12%), whereas the deterioration process accelerated in seeds stored at higher SMC (14%). Coupling high SMC with the availability of oxygen in the storage environment produced a negative effect on seed quality and longevity. Results from the antioxidant analysis showed more activity in seeds stored with oxygen at high SMC (14%) compared to lower SMC stored in modified oxygen conditions. Therefore, it is recommended that storage with low moisture levels (12%) or below (10%) is the best to preserve rice seed quality. However, at higher moisture levels (14%), the availability of oxygen in storage is more harmful to seed lifespan and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Onion (Allium cepa L.) is a major bulbous vegetable as well as condiment of family Alliaceae grown in India, originated in Iran and Pakistan. Seed pelleting is a mechanism of applying various materials to the seed that can enhance the seed quality with respect to physiological, physical and health attributes. Seed deterioration during storage is inevitable process; however seed pelleting can reduce the rate of deterioration. The leaf powders possess antioxidant, fungicidal and insecticidal properties that helps in maintaining the seed quality during storage. Methods: The present investigation was carried out in the laboratory of Department of Seed Science and Technology, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (HP) during the seasons of 2016-17 and 2017-18. This experiment comprised of pelleted seeds with different botanicals carried out to determine the effect of seed pelleting and storage potential of pelleted seeds. Result: This experiment comprised of pelleted seeds with different botanicals. In all the treatments gum Arabica (5%) was used as the adhesive except control. The pelleted seeds with different material were stored at ambient conditions for nine months. Highest germination (81.75%), seedling length (11.20 cm), seedling dry weight (1.82 g), seedling vigour index-length (920.33), seedling vigour index-mass (148.90) and speed of germination (26.57) were observed in onion seeds pelleted with Azadirechta indica leaf powder + clay and Melia azadirechta leaf powder + clay. Among the storage periods, fresh pelleted seed (0 month) showed maximum values with respect to germination (86.50%), seedling length (13.38 cm), seedling dry weight (2.02 g), seedling vigour index-length (1154.50), seedling vigour index-mass (173.52) and speed of germination (29.04). From the present studies, it can be concluded that onion seeds pelleted with Azadirechta indica leaf powder + clay and Melia azadirechta leaf powder + clay showed significant effects for enhancing seed quality during storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The safflower crop (Carthamus tinctorius L.) is of agro-economic potential due to its wide range of uses, from ornamentation to oil extraction, with good adaptability to cultivation throughout Brazil. However, this crop still faces challenges regarding the quality of its seeds, as there is a high susceptibility to the attack by phytogenes. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the physiological and sanitary quality of safflower seeds submitted to different storage periods. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design, 4x7 (seeds grown in the 2017/2018 harvest: sown in winter and spring 2017, and summer and autumn 2018, and seed storage periods: 0; 6; 12; 18; 24; 30 and 36 sequential months, counted from the harvest dates), with four replications. The quality of seeds was evaluated through the following tests: germination, electrical conductivity, dry mass and seedling length, field emergence and sanity. It was observed that the different safflower seed lots were sensitive to a prolonged storage period, with reduction in their physiological potential, especially in the percentage of germination and seedling emergence, and an increased incidence of harmful phytopathogens on these seeds. Thus, it is recommended a period of up to 12 months to obtain the conservation of safflower seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed vigor and seed germination are very important traits, determined by several factors including genetic and physical purity, mechanical damage, and physiological condition, characterized by maintaining a high seed vigor and stable content after storage. The search for molecular markers related to improvement in seed vigor under adverse condition is an important issue in maize breeding currently. Higher sowing quality of seeds is necessary for the development of the agriculture production and better ability to resist all kinds of adversity in the seeds' storage. Condition is a very important factor affecting the yield of plants, thanks to the construction of their vitality. Identification of molecular markers associated with seed germination and seed vigor may prove to be very important in the selection of high-yielding maize varieties. The aim of this study was to identify and select new markers for maize (SNP and SilicoDArT) linked to genes influencing the seed germination and seed vigor in inbred lines of maize (Zea mays L.). The plant material used for the research was 152 inbred maize lines. The seed germination and seed vigor were analyzed. For identification of SNP and SilicoDArT markers related to the seed germination and seed vigor, the SilicoDarT technique developed by Diversity Arrays Technology was used. The analysis of variance indicated a statistically significant differentiation between genotypes for both observed traits. Positive (r = 0.41) correlation (p < 0.001) between seed germination and seed vigor was observed. As a result of next-generation sequencing, the molecular markers SilicoDArT (53,031) and SNP (28,571) were obtained. Out of 81,602 identified SilicoDArT and SNP markers, 15,409 (1559 SilicoDArT and 13,850 SNP) were selected as a result of association mapping, which showed them to be significantly related to the analyzed traits. The 890 molecular markers were associated with seed vigor, and 1323 with seed germination. Fifty-six markers (47 SilicoDArT and nine SNP) were significant for both traits. Of these 56 markers, the 20 most significant were selected (five of these markers were significant at the level of 0.001 for seed vigor and at the level of 0.05 for seed germination, another five markers were significant at the level of 0.001 for seed germination and at the level of 0.05 for seed vigor, five markers significant at the level of 0.001 only for seed vigor and five significant at the level of 0.001 only for seed germination also selected). These markers were used for physical mapping to determine their location on the genetic map. Finally, it was found that six of these markers (five silicoDArT—2,435,784, 4,772,587, 4,776,334, 2,507,310, 25,981,291, and one SNP—2,386,217) are located inside genes, the action of which may affect both seed germination and seed vigor. These markers can be used to select genotypes with high vigor and good seed germination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Maintenance of seed quality in storage is important without losing its living entity against biotic and abiotic stress. Arka Sukomal seeds are protein rich and include other nutrient composition which is required for seed germination and seedling establishment. There is a need to minimise the deterioration of cellular structure and biochemical compounds by adopting suitable storage conditions and containers. Methods: The laboratory experiment was carried out to identify the suitable storage conditions and containers on seed quality parameters. The seeds were stored in four different containers viz., cloth bag, polythene bag, super grain bag and poly-lined aluminium pouch at ambient and at controlled condition (15°C). The observations were recorded bimonthly up to fourteen months. Result: The results showed that seeds in poly-lined aluminium pouch at controlled conditions had shown better quality parameters like lower moisture content (7.70%), higher seed germination (93.58%), more increased seedling vigour index II (5316) and low electrical conductivity of seed leachate (0.437 dS m-1) whereas it was lower in cloth bag at ambient condition (10.40%, 80.67%, 3611 and 0.649 dS m-1, respectively) at the end of storage period. Hence, the viability and vigour of seeds could be maintained better by storing in moisture impervious containers (poly-lined aluminium pouch and polythene bag) at the controlled condition, which is costeffective and easily adaptable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Restoration seedbanks have become a key infrastructure resource in efforts to restore damaged and degraded environments across the globe. Large‐scale ecological restoration typically utilizes large volumes of valuable, usually wild‐collected seeds, but insufficient knowledge of seed biology (including storage requirements in some cases) and ecology for many species continues to hamper the utility of restoration seedbanks to meet this rising demand. Poor germination and establishment when seeds are deployed from seedbanks can stem from factors such as premature seed collection, low seed quality, poor processing, handling and storage, variable seed quality from year to year, and, critically, insufficient understanding of seed dormancy, seed germination traits, and the ecological requirements for germination stimulation. While these factors may impact the success of seed‐based ecological restoration both synergistically and idiosyncratically, they can be universally addressed by adopting best practice principles in seedbank management and operation and through an improved understanding of the seed biology and ecology of stored species. Drawing upon an industry case study in seedbanking for post‐mining ecological restoration, we outline how optimizing seed storage conditions and a focus on seed biology and ecology in the operation of a restoration seedbank can deliver broad and immediate benefit and cost‐efficiency to native seed use. Such improvements are crucial in developing more effective approaches for returning biodiverse plant communities to highly modified landscapes and are foundational for meeting the aspirations for ecological restoration at global scales in the coming decade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field experiments were conducted to study the effect of harvesting stages i.e. (mature pod of turning stage, brown undried stage and brown dried stage) on seed yield and quality attributes of okra sown at different dates (March 10, March 30, April 19 and May 9) at Agriculture Research Institute Tarnab Peshawar, during 2016 and 2017. A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with split plot arrangement having sowing dates as the main plot factor, while harvesting stages as sub plot factor was used. The seeds of okra, after harvesting and drying were packed in polythene bags and stored for 0, 3 and 6 months at room temperature. The seed quality attributes were evaluated at the specified storage duration. It is evident from the results that sowing dates, harvesting stages, storage duration and their interaction significantly affected seed yield and quality parameters of okra. The average of two years results showed that maximum pod length (15.23 cm), number of seeds pod-1(58.09), seed weight pod-1(3.57 g), 1000 seed weight (g), seed yield (1.72 t ha-1), germination (79.61 %) and seed viability (91.85 %) were observed in seeds harvested from plants sown on March 30 as compared to seeds harvested from late sown plants on May 9. Highest hard seed (23.69 %) was recorded in seeds collected from late sown plants on May 9 as compared to other sowing dates. As for as harvesting stages are concerned, maximum seed weight pod-1(3.57 g), 1000 seed weight (61.33 g), seed yield (1.67 t ha-1), germination (81.21 %) and seed viability (91.86 %) was recorded when pods were harvested at brown dried stage. Whereas maximum pod length (15.63cm), highest moisture content (12.57 %) and hard seed (26.85 %) were recorded at mature pod of turning stage. The data on seed quality attributes in relation to storage revealed that the highest seed moisture (13.21 %) and seed viability (91.86 %) was recorded in seeds stored for 0 months, but the mean maximum germination percentage (75.58%) and lowest hard seed (17.46 %) was recorded with seeds stored for 3 months. The seed moisture content, germination percentage and seed viability decreased, while hard seeds increased with increasing seed storage duration. The D x H interaction influenced most of the quality attributes such as seed weight pod-1, germination, hard seeds, but moisture content and seed viability of the seeds was not significantly affected. The H x S interaction also significantly affected the seed moisture content, germination percentage, hard seed and seed viability. So, it can be concluded that sowing on March 30 with pods harvested at brown dry stage resulted in maximum seed yield and quality and slowed down the deterioration of the seeds during storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field experiments were conducted to study the effect of harvesting stages i.e. (mature pod of turning stage, brown undried stage and brown dried stage) on seed yield and quality attributes of okra sown at different dates (March 10, March 30, April 19 and May 9) at Agriculture Research Institute Tarnab Peshawar, during 2016 and 2017. A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with split plot arrangement having sowing dates as the main plot factor, while harvesting stages as sub plot factor was used. The seeds of okra, after harvesting and drying were packed in polythene bags and stored for 0, 3 and 6 months at room temperature. The seed quality attributes were evaluated at the specified storage duration. It is evident from the results that sowing dates, harvesting stages, storage duration and their interaction significantly affected seed yield and quality parameters of okra. The average of two years results showed that maximum pod length (15.23 cm), number of seeds pod-1(58.09), seed weight pod-1(3.57 g), 1000 seed weight (g), seed yield (1.72 t ha-1), germination (79.61 %) and seed viability (91.85 %) were observed in seeds harvested from plants sown on March 30 as compared to seeds harvested from late sown plants on May 9. Highest hard seed (23.69 %) was recorded in seeds collected from late sown plants on May 9 as compared to other sowing dates. As for as harvesting stages are concerned, maximum seed weight pod-1(3.57 g), 1000 seed weight (61.33 g), seed yield (1.67 t ha-1), germination (81.21 %) and seed viability (91.86 %) was recorded when pods were harvested at brown dried stage. Whereas maximum pod length (15.63cm), highest moisture content (12.57 %) and hard seed (26.85 %) were recorded at mature pod of turning stage. The data on seed quality attributes in relation to storage revealed that the highest seed moisture (13.21 %) and seed viability (91.86 %) was recorded in seeds stored for 0 months, but the mean maximum germination percentage (75.58%) and lowest hard seed (17.46 %) was recorded with seeds stored for 3 months. The seed moisture content, germination percentage and seed viability decreased, while hard seeds increased with increasing seed storage duration. The D x H interaction influenced most of the quality attributes such as seed weight pod-1, germination, hard seeds, but moisture content and seed viability of the seeds was not significantly affected. The H x S interaction also significantly affected the seed moisture content, germination percentage, hard seed and seed viability. So, it can be concluded that sowing on March 30 with pods harvested at brown dry stage resulted in maximum seed yield and quality and slowed down the deterioration of the seeds during storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Seed preservation in the context of changing climatic conditions and retaining quality is a big challenge, especially for marginal farmers who does not have appropriate seed storage facilities. Moisture and temperature variations (both seasonal and diurnal) during storage result in moulds, bacteria, insects, mites and rodents attacks. Tropical regions with higher ambient temperatures and relative humidity variations need to address the storage issue. Methods: This research work discusses the process of design, fabrication and testing of a low-cost seed storage unit (SSU) for community-based seed banks. The SSU of 200 L storage capacity was cooled using a thermoelectric cooler (TEC) to provide the temperature range of 15°C to 18°C and relative humidity <70% inside the SSU. The SSU was field-tested at fourteen different agro-climatic locations for seeds of paddy (Oryza sativa), gram (Cicer arietinum), onion (Allium cepa), groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) and maize (Zea mays) during the period 18 months between 2017 to 2019. These seeds were tested for germination count (GC) and moisture content (MC). Result: Results obtained indicated that the SSU developed can retain essential seed quality parameters i.e. more than 80% germination count (GC), except for groundnut seeds over a period of 18 months as against loss of seed viability in 8 months’ time in traditional storage at ambient temperature. Based on the field performance testing, we recommend the use of such devices for farmers’ and farmers’ producer companies for a decentralised seed storage capacity of 100 to 200 kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed ageing is an inevitable process that reduces seed quality during storage. When seeds deteriorate as a result of the lipid peroxidation process, it leads to produce toxic volatile organic compounds. These volatiles served as an indicator for the viability of stored seeds. With this background, the study was conducted to profile the volatile organic compounds emitted from rice seeds during storage. Volatile profiling of stored rice var. Co 51 seeds was done through Headspace-Solid phase microextraction/ Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME/GCMS). The study clearly demonstrated that the significant decrease in physiological and biochemical quality attributes was noted due to an increase in the strength of volatiles released during ageing. When the release of total volatile strength reached more than 40%, a significant reduction in physiological attributes such as germination, root and shoot length, dry matter production and vigour index were observed. With respect to biochemical properties, a significant increase in electrical conductivity of seed leachate, lipid peroxidation and lipoxygenase activity, and decrease in dehydrogenase, catalase and peroxidase activities were observed. However, the highest reduction in all these properties were recorded when the total volatile strength reached to 54.90%. Finally, the study concluded that, among all the volatiles, 1-hexanol, 1-butanol, ethanol, hexanal, acetic acid, hexanoic acid and methyl ester were the most closely associated volatiles with seed deterioration. It indicates that these components could be considered the signature components for assessing the seed quality in rice during storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was conducted to profiling the volatile organic compounds emitted from groundnut seeds during storage and also to assess the volatiles emission level during seed deterioration. Volatile organic compounds profiling of stored groundnut seeds was done through GC-MS at monthly intervals. The results showed that several volatile compounds were released from stored groundnut seeds and all the compounds are falling into eight major groups viz., alcohols, aldehydes, acids, esters, alkanes, alkenes, ketones and ethers. The study clearly demonstrated the influence of volatile organic compounds emission level on physiological and biochemical properties during storage. There was a significant decrease in physiological and biochemical quality attributes noted due to an increase in the strength of volatiles released during ageing. When the release of total volatile strength reached more than 50%, a significant reduction in physiological attributes such as germination, root and shoot length, dry matter production and vigour index were observed. With respect to biochemical properties, a significant increase in electrical conductivity of seed leachate, lipid peroxidation and lipoxygenase activity, and a decrease in dehydrogenase, catalase and peroxidase activities were observed. However, the highest reduction in all these properties was recorded when the total volatile strength reached 92.72%. The study concluded that the volatiles released during seed deterioration could be considered the signature components for detecting the seed quality during storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The J. Derek Bewley Career Lectures presented at the triennial meetings of the International Society of Seed Science support early-career seed scientists by providing retrospective views, from those late in their careers, of lessons learned and future implications. Ambition, ability, inspiration, foresight, hard work and opportunity are obvious career requirements. The importance of mentoring and teamwork combined with the clear communication of results, understanding and ideas are emphasized. The role of illustration in research, and its dissemination, is outlined: illustration can support hypothesis development, testing and communication. Climate change may perturb the production of high-quality seed affecting conservation as well as agriculture, horticulture and forestry. An illustrative synthesis of the current understanding of temporal aspects of the effects of seed production environment on seed quality (assessed by subsequent seed storage longevity) is provided for wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and rice (Oryza sativa L.). Seed science research can contribute to complex global challenges such as future food supplies from seed-propagated crops in our changing climate whilst conserving biological diversity (through seed ecology and technologies such as ex situ plant genetic resources conservation by long-term seed storage in genebanks), but only if that research can be – and then is – applied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to understand the changes of quality indexes and provide new insights for the scientific storage and the predictionof quality change of high oil soybean during storage. In the present study, a biochemical investigation was carried out to determine the quality indicators of high-oil soybeans during seed storage. Two kinds of high-oil soybeans were collected from the Henan and Inner Mongolia of China. Different moisture (13.00%±0.20% and 15.00%±0.20%) were then adjusted and stored the seeds at 25℃ and 35℃ for 180 days. The quality indexes of high-oil soybeans were determined and analyzed every 30 days during storage. Some parameters were evaluated, including the malondialdehyde (MDA) content, electrical conductivity, and enzyme activities of catalase (CAT), as well as the peroxidase (POD) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO). A correlation analysis was also carried out between the physiological and biochemical indexes. A kinetic model was selected for the change trends analysis of electrical conductivity and MDA. The results showed that the activities of CAT, POD, and PPO decreased with the increase in storage time, whereas the electrical conductivity and MDA content increased significantly in the two kinds of high-oil soybeans. And the change range of them increased with the increasing of the initial moisture content and the storage temperature. The correlation analysis showed that the storage time presented a significant or extremely significant correlation with the physical and chemical indexes of the two high-oil soybeans. The correlation coefficients between the storage time with the MDA and PPO were 0.82 and -0.90, 0.81 and -0.92, in the Henan and Inner Mongolia soybeans, respectively. The initial water content was significantly negatively correlated with the CAT activity of the two soybeans. The correlation coefficients were -0.63 and -0.74, respectively, indicating no strong correlation with the indicators. At the same time, there was a positive correlation between the storage temperature and the electrical conductivity in the two soybeans, where the correlation coefficients were 0.66 and 0.61, respectively. Furthermore, the kinetic analysis showed that the zero-order kinetic model better fitted for both electrical conductivity and MDA of the two high-oil soybeans at different storage temperatures. The two indexes were attributed to the energy demand reaction during storage (ΔG>0). The zero-order kinetic response coefficient also increased with the increase of initial moisture content and storage temperature of soybeans. Moreover, there was a higher content of crude fat in the zero-order kinetic activation energy of MDA and the electrical conductivity in the Henan soybean, compared with the Inner Mongolia one. Consequently, the higher temperature, initial moisture content, and crude fat content accelerated the electrical conductivity and MDA during storage, leading to the faster quality deterioration of the high-oil soybean. Therefore, a strict control of the temperature and initial moisture content during storage can be expected to maintain the fat content of seeds for the less quality deterioration of high-oil soybean. In particular with the high initial moisture content, the temperature conditions should be strictly regulated for the storage safety of the soybeans. Meanwhile, MDA content of high-oil soybean was more likely to change during storage than other indexes, which could be used as an early reference index for the quality change prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical mutagenesis with 60Co is a technique used in plant breeding to induce desired phenotypic characteristics. This research objective was to evaluate physical and physiological quality and protein content of jalapeño pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) seeds from plants that were selected as tolerant to water stress, these plants were derived from seeds irradiated with 60Co at 100 Gy dose (T1P2 and T1P5 both from tolerant plants to water stress). Control seeds were significantly superior to the mutants in the variable standard germination (90.66%), standard germination with accelerated aging (57.3%), normal seedlings (95.6%), 1000 seeds weight (6.349 g), hectoliter weight (51.97 kg hL-1) and radicle dry weight (18 mg). Mutant seeds were significantly superior to control seeds in seed length and width (4.356 mm in T1P2 and 4.256 mm in T1P5 for length; 3.544 mm in T1P2 and 3.632 mm in T1P5 for width). In seed thickness tests, germinated seeds aerial part fresh and dry weight, radicle fresh weight, the two mutants seed types and the control were significantly equal. In seed storage proteins content, T1P2 treatment had a higher globulins concentration. In the prolamin fraction, the two mutant seed types were superior to control. T1P5 treatment seeds had the highest glutelins concentration. Mutant seeds showed different characteristics as compared to control in physical, physiological and plantlet parts weight components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is one of the most important grain legumes after common bean. In the present study, a total of 35 chickpea genotypes including desi and Kabuli types of cultivated chickpea (C. arietinum) were evaluated for seed physical characteristics that are very important for seed storage, processing and determining seed quality traits. Therefore, it has become imperative to study the seed physical characteristics of chickpea during the present study. The analysis of data revealed that substantial variation is present among the genotypes under study with respect to seed physical characteristics such as seed size, seed volume, seed density, hydration capacity, hydration index, swelling capacity and swelling index. These traits are considered important to determine the seed rate at the time of sowing of the crop, cooking quality, storage and processing and thereby have a direct bearing on the economics of chickpea consumption. Our results indicated that the desi, Kabuli and pea-shaped genotypes differ significantly in seed physical characteristics with overall superior trait performance of the Kabuli type compared to other seed types, making them superior with respect to consumer/market demands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The monitoring and evaluating the physical and physiological quality of seeds throughout storage requires technical and financial resources and is subject to sampling and laboratory errors. Therefore, machine learning (ML) techniques could help optimize the processes and obtain accurate results for decision-making in the seed storage process. This study aimed to analyze the performance of ML algorithms from variables monitored during seed conditioning (temperature and packaging) and storage time to predict the physical and physiological quality of stored soybean seeds. Data analysis was performed using the Artificial Neural Networks, decision tree algorithms REPTree and M5P, Random Forest, and Linear Regression. In predicting seed quality, the combination of the input variables temperature and storage time for REPTree and Random Forest algorithms outperformed the linear regression, providing higher accuracy indices. Among the most important results, it was observed for apparent specific mass that T + P + ST, T + ST, P + ST, and ST had the highest r means and the lowest MAE means, however, Person's r coefficient for these inputs was 0.63 and the MAE between 9.59 to 10.47. The germination results for inputs T + P + ST and T + ST had the best results (r = 0.65 and r = 0.67, respectively) in the ANN, REPTree, M5P and RF models. Using computational intelligence algorithms is an excellent alternative to predict the quality of soybean seeds from the information of easy-to-measure variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Superior agricultural yields are obtained from seeds which have a high physiological potential, these are conserved in the post-harvest stage. Thus, it is crucial to implement post-harvest projects with appropriate technologies related to the equipment used and the control of operations. This article presents a review of the technical-kinetic developments in the area of the technology of processing post-harvest soybean seeds, with a particular focus on the evolution and current circumstances of the sector. The findings from this research reveal significant technological advances in the drying, processing and storage of seeds at different levels and in various areas of soybean production. In drying systems, temperatures of up to 40°C are recommended, while seed batches must remain static in drying chambers. When processing and standardizing seeds, it is recommended that lowmoving equipment and abrupt contacts with mechanical systems, such as pneumatic and gravity separators, be employed to minimize dropping and contact with seeds. In soybean storage, the applications of technologies that can control temperature and relative humidity, and also maintain the storage moisture content in a hygroscopic balance are recommended. The storage of seeds in coated big bags and artificial cooling; a controlled and modified atmosphere serve to preserve essential seed qualities. This review concludes that over the years, there has been a reduction in the cumulative losses due to post-harvest processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice seed germination and vigor are vital qualities to improve seedling growth and eventual yield. This study determined the effects of different hydropriming (0, 6, 12, or 18 h) and storage duration (0, 1, 2, and 3 mo) on the seed germination properties and seedling vigor of three irrigated varieties 'Angelica', 'Tubigan 14', 'Tubigan 24', and a rainfed variety 'Sahod Ulan 9'. The seed quality and germination responses after hydropriming were evaluated every month during storage in ambient conditions (28 ± 2 °C; 85 ± 5% RH) for 3 mo. 'Sahod Ulan 9' showed tolerance to low moisture content (MC), higher germination percentage (GP) and germination index (GI), plus faster mean germination time (MGT) and days to radicle emergence (DRE); it also produced seedlings with longer shoots compared to 'Angelica', 'Tubigan 14', 'Tubigan 24'. On the other hand, the irrigated varieties showed a higher seed vigor index (SVI) because of their high GP plus longer roots and seedlings. Hydropriming seeds for 6 or 12 h maintained a lower MC, which resulted in higher GP, GI, and SVI; fastest MGT and DRE; and longer shoot, root, and seedling. This study suggests that hydropriming rice seeds of these varieties for 6 h is sufficient to improve germination and vigor. The results suggest that hydropriming rice seeds for 6 h is sufficient to boost the rice germination and vigor of the four rice varieties tested, especially 'Sahod Ulan 9'. Storage in ambient room conditions is suggested to be limited to only 1 mo after hydropriming as the germination responses decline thereafter. Moreover, the interaction effects of genotype, hydropriming duration, and storage time were found in GP; GI; DRE; root, shoot, and seedling lengths; and SVI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prolonged storage of seeds may lead to decreases in seed quality, negatively affecting germination and vigor and preventing the obtaining of a promising stand. Seed quality is a critical factor, and the performance of the lot can be altered by vigor, dormancy and, mainly, by the time and conditions in which the seeds were stored. In the experiment, the physiological quality of seeds 14 genotypes of buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliaris L.) genotypes stored for a period of thirteen years in cold conditions was evaluated. The seeds were subjected to germination induction treatment with potassium nitrate (KNO3) and evaluated to identify seeds with presence and absence of embryos. The seed storage period affected their germination capacity and the use of KNO3 did not increase seed germination. A low number of full seeds was found for genotype 613 (12%). The relative germination percentages did not underestimate the buffel grass seed germination potential, as it is usually calculated, providing an improved distinction between the evaluated genotypes. The use of KNO3 increased the seedling root and shoot weights of some genotypes, as well as the dry matter weight of seedlings, an important characteristic for forage production. The prolonged storage affects the physiological quality of buffel grass seeds. The production of seeds without embryo is a problem found for this species, which affects the final quality of the seed lots produced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed reserve mobilization is considered a post-germination process; however, seed storage protein mobilization occurs during germination. Thus, the knowledge of seed protein composition is important to understand various processes during germination, and it be associated with seed vigor. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize landrace genotypes of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) through fractionation of seed storage proteins during germination and to verify the association between seed protein composition and seed vigor. Genotypes of the highest (55 and 81) and lowest (23 and 50) physiological quality were selected. Protein content analysis, profiling, and characterization were performed by combining different hydration times. Mass spectrometry involving in-gel digestion and MALDI-ToF analysis was employed for the qualitative identification of proteins. Glutelin extraction detected the enzyme lipoxygenase in genotypes 55 and 81 alone. In plants, this enzyme may be involved in diverse physiological processes, including growth and development, pest resistance, senescence, and response to wounding. In the process of germination, lipoxygenase removes reactive oxygen species during reserve mobilization; therefore, lipoxygenase may be a candidate biochemical marker for high-vigor genotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tomato is one of the most important vegetable crops in the world due to its dietary value. Harvesting and storing of physiologically matured tomato seeds is very important to secure good quality seeds for future use in a changing climate. The objective of the study was to assess the effect of maturity stages on seed quality of two tomato accessions during cold storage. Methods: Seeds of two tomato accessions extracted at four maturity stages (i.e. initially ripe, half ripe, fully ripe and rotten) were stored at -20°C in a deep freezer for 12 months. The quality of stored seeds was measured by seed vigour and germination percentage at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months after storage. Conclusion: The study showed significant differences in seed vigour and germination percentage at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months after storage (MAS) among the maturity stages. Seeds extracted at the initially ripe stage in GH 9305 had the least vigour at 3, 6, 9 and 12 MAS. The highest reduction in seed quality during the storage period was observed in seeds extracted at the rotten stage in both accessions. Seed vigour and germination were higher in GH 9207 than GH 9305. Storage of physiologically matured tomato seeds at freezing temperature is necessary to reduce seed ageing and to maintain high seed quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dolichos bean is one of the important vegetable legume crops. During storage, protection of seed from bruchid attack is a major problem worldwide. Once the bruchid attacks, the extent of damage could be up to 100%, leading to both quantitative and qualitative loss by making it unfit for consumption. Existing traditional methods are less effective or impractical and the use of chemical methods can be harmful to the farmers and consumers. So, there is urgent need of hermetic storage method for seed quality maintenance. Keeping in view, the present study was carried out to investigate on hermetic storage practices for seed quality maintenance. Methods: Triple-layer PICS technology, a chemical-free hermetic storage was evaluated for storage of dolichos bean to moisture content, germination and quality. Four different types of storage bags viz., jute bags, polythene bags, triple layer PICS bags and jute bags treated with chlorpyrifos were used for evaluating their efficacy in managing dolichos bean seed attributes. The data on various parameters pertaining to seed characteristics and changes in biochemical composition of dolichos bean seeds stored in different bags was recorded at every two month intervals for 3 times (2,4 and 6 months) by using standard protocols. Complete Randomized Design (CRD) (Snedecor and Cochran, 1967) was used for the data analysis. The data was subjected to statistical analysis as per the methods suggested by Panse and Sukhatme (1985). Result: Results on moisture content showed that, in case of storage in PICS bags, there was no decrease in seed moisture content at 2, 4 and 6 months respectively and germination percent in triple-layer PICS bag at 2, 4 and 6 months storage was highest among all bag types. Test weight (g), protein content (%) and carbohydrate content (%) at 2, 4 and 6 months storage respectively were higher in triple layer PICS bag. The mean fat content recorded was highest in jute bag (1.25%) and lowest in triple layer PICS bag (0.63%). Our study concludes that the triple layer PICS bags hermetic technology is efficient in managing maintaining same level of moisture content percent, germination percent and test weight compared to other bags over 3 different periods of storage. The triple layer PICS bags are also highly useful for retaining carbohydrate percent and protein percent at almost the same levels compared to initial values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most important feature of the storage systems is to preserve the integrity of the grain for a given period with minimal loss in quality and quantity. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of seed conditioning prior to storage process using infrared heating at the optimum radiation intensity of 882.67W/m2 and exposure time of 15 min and the ultraviolet radiation at radiation intensity of 3.538mW/cm2 and exposure time of 40 min on storability of cowpea seeds using different types of plastic hermetic bags in comparison with pp woven bags. The changes in cowpea seeds quality during storage of pre-treated cowpea seeds in terms of moisture content, protein content, total microbial count and insect detection were also determined. The results show that, the moisture content of seeds stored in pp woven bags increased in contrast with both types of studied hermetic bags, oxygen concentration for hermetic bags decreased during storage period and carbon dioxide increased unlike pp woven bag, The rate of seeds infection with microorganisms and weevils was lower for the samples stored in both types of hermetic bags and crude protein content of seeds stored in hermetic bags reduced at a very slight rate in comparison with that stored in woven bag. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most important feature of the storage systems is to preserve the integrity of the grain for a given period with minimal loss in quality and quantity. The main objective of this study aimed to choose the proper conditions which ensure safe storage process using infrared heating at the optimum radiation intensity of 882.67 W/m² and exposure time of 15 min and the ultraviolet radiation at radiation intensity of 3.538 mW/cm² and exposure time of 40 min on storability of cowpea seeds using different types of plastic hermetic bags in comparison with polypropylene (pp) woven bags. The changes in cowpea seeds quality during storage of pre-treated cowpea seeds in terms of moisture content, protein content, total microbial count and insect detection were also determined. The results show that, the moisture content of seeds stored in pp woven bags increased in contrast with both types of studied hermetic bags, oxygen concentration for hermetic bags decreased during storage period and carbon dioxide increased unlike pp woven bag, The rate of seeds infection with microorganisms and weevils was lower comparing with the samples stored in both types of hermetic bags and crude protein content of seeds stored in hermetic bags reduced at a very slight rate in comparison with that stored in woven bag. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quality of soybeans produced can be altered depending on the position in which the pod is produced in the plant. The objective of this work is to evaluate the physiological quality of soybean seeds produced in different strata of the plant (lower, middle and upper), and the control treatment (harvest of all seeds produced in the plant), after at 170 and 350 days of storage. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design, and the treatments were arranged in a double factorial scheme, corresponding to 4x3 (four plant strata and three evaluation periods). The soybean cultivar NS 6209, with an indeterminate growth habit, was used to conduct the research. The seeds were evaluated for water and mass content of 1,000 seeds and germination and accelerated aging tests. According to the results obtained it is concluded that the production stratum did not influence the quality of the seeds produced for the tests of germination and accelerated aging. However, the mass of one thousand seeds is superior for the seeds produced in the upper and middle strata. The storage of soybean seeds for 350 days affected the percentage of germination and vigor of the seeds in a negative way, regardless of the seed production stratum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed production underpins the agricultural industry and is impacted by the maternal environment during maturation. In addition, inappropriate post-harvest storage conditions can affect seed quality, by accelerating viability loss and reducing seed longevity. The objective of this research was to investigate the impact of storage conditions on the germination and physiological and biochemical processes of seeds of Lallemantia iberica and L. royleana under drought stress. Seeds were matured under maternal plant irrigation regimes of 30% (I30) and 60% (I60) of soil available water depletion and subjected to different storage conditions: control, natural aging (NA), controlled deterioration (CD), elevated partial pressure of oxygen (EPPO), and elevated partial pressure of nitrogen (EPPN). Seeds of both species matured under water deficit I60 had enhanced germination index, unsaturated and saturated fatty acid contents, total soluble sugar, sucrose and starch contents, and α- and β-amylase activities. This treatment also resulted in reduced seed electrical conductivity (EC), hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2), and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations. The different seed storage conditions had negative effects on germination index, storage compounds, and fatty acids, with the smaller and greater changes under NA and EPPO aging, respectively. During the different aging conditions, it was noted that L. iberica seeds showed greater deterioration compared to L. royleana seeds. In conclusion, post-harvest conditions impact seed quality, with mild stress of the maternal environment increasing the seed longevity of both Lallemantia species. [Display omitted] • Lallemantia iberica and L. royleana seeds are important sources of unsaturated fatty acids. • Drought stress in maternal plants' environment increased seed component storage. • Electrical conductivity correlated with lipid peroxidation. • The highest deterioration was observed in stored seeds under EPPO. • Deterioration in L.iberica was more than L.royleana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mimosa ephedroides is an endemic shrub from western Argentina. Knowledge on its germination response to different environmental factors contributes to an efficient use of this species in ecological restoration projects. This study aimed to examine different aspects of the species germination. Seed quality and dormancy, optimum germination temperature, effects of water and saline stresses (by using Mannitol and NaCl as osmotic agents, respectively) and of seed storage time on seed viability and germination, were evaluated. Experiments were carried out in controlled growth chambers. Germination percentage and mean germination time were calculated. Results showed that seeds of this species have high viability, low pre-dispersal loss and are non-dormant. Regarding abiotic factors, optimum germination temperature ranged from 20 to 30 °C, while high germination percentages were observed even at moderate and severe water stress (-1.12 MPa). Germination percentages decreased when salinity increased over 300 mM NaCl. For short periods (up to 36 months), seed storage at room temperature (18 °C) was adequate and did not affect seed viability or germination. These results constitute important contributions to the autecological aspects of this endemic species, supporting its incorporation in restoration projects and allowing efficient use of its seeds in direct seeding or seedling production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in the physiological quality of soybean seeds throughout a storage period in two environments, and to evaluate how these changes are related to metabolites of the phenylpropanoid pathway. A completely randomized experimental design was used in a 4 × 8 factorial arrangement (storage periods × cultivars) with four replications. We used seeds from cultivars with contrasts in lignin content, color, and presence of anthocyanin in the seed coat, and isoflavone content in the seed. The seeds were kept for six months under cold and dry storage and in a noncontrolled environment. Germination, first germination count, seedling emergence, and tetrazolium testing were performed on the seeds every two months. The physiological quality of the seeds declines during the storage period, with higher rates of decrease in the non-controlled environment. The metabolites of the phenylpropanoid pathway that were studied, especially lignin, affect seed storage potential. Cultivars with higher lignin content show greater storage potential, especially in a non-controlled environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of age of storage under farm conditions on the deterioration of seeds from Erythrina berteroana (erythrina), Albizia lebbeck (albizia), Gliricidia sepium (gliricidia) and Bauhinia purpurea (bauhinia) was studied. For this purpose, a simple classification design was used in each species with four replications of 100 seeds each. The viability (%) and, germination (%) were determined, which analysis was conducted through variance analysis and the mean multiple comparison matrix of Student-Newman Keuls (SNK) of SAS®. The variable germination in erythrina showed a significant increase during the study (from 20% in month 0 to 68% in month 12); while in albizia it showed a variable performance. In both species, viability decreased but in the final evaluation, it still exceeded 80%. Seed age in erythrina and albizia decisively influenced the reinforcement of the coat impermeability and thus their high survival. The germination and viability values coincided during the whole study for bauhinia and gliricidia and decreased significantly during storage; in the former, the seeds evaluated after 10 months had lower quality, while in the latter physiological death was reached after nine months; such species have a high deterioration rate during storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quality seed is a prerequisite to uniform stand establishment, which contributes to higher crop yield. However, prevalence of poor-quality cottonseed with high moisture content due to suboptimal harvesting and postharvest practices is the primary reason for crop-stand failure in developing countries. The present study evaluated the effects of harvesting environment, drying method and storage conditions on seed quality of transgenic (FH-142) and non-transgenic (FH-942) genotypes of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) cultivated in Pakistan. Both genotypes were picked three times at monthly intervals during the cropping season and subjected to a ginning process. Seed was then dried in the sun or with desiccant zeolite beads, and stored for 5 months in cloth or hermetic bags at room temperature or in paper bags at 10°C. The efficiency of storage systems was evaluated by estimating moisture content and germination potential periodically in the storehouse and later under field conditions. Both genotypes exhibited better seed quality attributes at the first picking, and zeolite beads dried seed to lowest moisture content more quickly than sun-drying. Seeds of both genotypes stored hermetically retained the lowest moisture content, maximum germination potential, and lower fatty acid contents throughout the storage period, as well as performing significantly better in the field by exhibiting early and uniform stand establishment, more fruiting branches and bolls, and higher yield. Thus, use of zeolite beads in post-harvest drying followed by hermetic storage preserves cottonseed quality for longer, and leads to improved crop growth and yield of cotton. These practices will be useful for cotton farmers in developing countries. Lack of availability of quality seed is prime hindrance to high production of cotton in developing countries. Moisture is a main culprit behind poor seed quality during harvesting and post-harvest handling. In this study, early harvest, use of zeolite beads in post-harvest drying, and hermetic storage preserved cottonseed quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different regions have different environmental conditions, which may be unfavorable for the preservation of the quality of stored soybean seeds over time. Thus, it is necessary to adopt specific technologies to control the storage environment conditions. Big raffia bags are widely used for the storage of soybean seeds, however these consist of a porous, permeable material that allows the exchange of gases between the packaging and the storage environment. In an effort to find a solution to this problem, in this study we evaluated low cost big bag coating alternatives, in order to minimize the effects of temperature and intergranular humidity on stored seeds. Thus, the aim of this work was to evaluate the quality of soybean cultivars subjected to different temperature and storage duration conditions and stored in raffia bags with or without internal coating. We used a completely randomized, three-factor (10 × 6 × 5) experimental design. We assessed 10 soybean cultivars, six storage environments, and five evaluation periods. Our results showed that seeds of the M-SOY 8866, M7110 IPRO, CD 2737 RR, and BMX DESAFIO 8473 RSF soybean cultivars preserved their physiological quality better in different storage environments. The storage duration had a cumulative effect on the negative factors that favor the deterioration of the quality of the stored seeds. The storage temperature was the main factor that affected the physiological quality of the stored seeds. The use of coated packaging was beneficial in preserving the physiological quality of stored soybean seeds; however, its effect was greater at ambient temperature than in a cold environment. The best storage environment for the preservation of the quality of the seeds was characterized by 10°C temperature conditions and the use of coated packaging, while the worst storage environment was characterized by ambient temperature conditions without the use of coated packaging. Thus, it was concluded that the use of coatings in raffia big bags can be an alternative for maintaining the quality of seeds of different soybean cultivars during storage in seed processing units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the quality of seeds of RR and RR2 PRO soybean cultivars stored in ambient air with raffia packaging (ANER), ambient air with laminated packaging (ANEL), modified atmosphere with polyethylene packaging (AMEP), refrigerated atmosphere (1 to 3°C) with raffia packaging (ARER), refrigerated atmosphere (1 to 3°C) with laminated packaging (AREL), and modified (-14 PSI) and refrigerated (1 to 3°C) atmosphere with polyethylene packaging (AMREP), over 6 months of storage. Results showed that the seeds of cultivar RR2 were preserved with better physiological quality. Raffia and polyethylene packaging under natural storage conditions, in a refrigerated and modified atmosphere, did not preserve the seed quality over the storage period. The conditions of storage in ambient air with laminated packaging (ANEL) and in a refrigerated atmosphere with laminated packaging (AREL) reduced the environmental effects of temperature and relative humidity, leading to better results of physiological quality of the seeds. Storage time negatively influenced the physiological quality of seeds, except for AREL and ANEL, which maintained the quality close to that of the initial conditions, over the 6 months of storage. The best alternatives for soybean seeds storage over 6 months are the laminated packaging in a natural environment, matching the refrigerated conditions. The technological laminated packaging can be used as a new alternative for conserving soybean seeds in processing and storage units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The management of forest seeds in Ecuador, in relation to their storage, is still insufficient, in particular the Cinchona pubescens Vahl. The objective was to determine the quality of the seeds and the best methods of seed storage of C. pubescens, using different times, containers and conditions. Seed collection was in Intag, Imbabura. The factors under study were: storage time, types of packaging and storage conditions. The quality of the seeds was determined at the time of harvest and in each treatment. Purity reached 76.5%, the weight of 1,000 seeds was 0.31 g and the humidity content was 14%. In the first storage trial, no germination was observed in any treatment from the first month. In the second trial, the best storage method was transparent cover stored in refrigeration for one week, which showed 9.25% germination power. Cinchona pubescens seeds lose their viability quickly, which becomes null after one month of storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective seed storage after sourcing (harvesting or purchasing) is critical to restoration practitioners and native seed producers, as it is key to maintaining seed viability. Inadequate seed storage can lead to a waste of both natural and economic resources when seeds of poor quality are sown. When working with native species with unknown storage behavior, general assumptions can be made based on studies on related species, and standard practices may be applied with caution; however, an investigation should be conducted to understand if specific storage requirements are needed and for how long seeds can be stored before they lose significant viability. In this paper of the Special Issue Standards for Native Seeds in Ecological Restoration, we provide an overview of the key concepts in seed storage and the steps to take for effective storage of native seeds for restoration use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing demand for native seeds in ecological restoration and rehabilitation, whether for mining, forest, or ecosystem restoration, has resulted in a major global industry in the sourcing, supply, and sale of native seeds. However, there are no international guidance documents for ensuring that native seeds have the same standards of quality assurance that are regular practice in the crop and horticultural industries. Using the International Principles and Standards for the Practice of Ecological Restoration as a foundation document, we provide for the first time a synthesis of general practices in the native seed supply chain to derive the Principles and Standards for Native Seeds in Ecological Restoration ("Standards"). These practices and the underpinning science provide the basis for developing quality measures and guidance statements that are adaptable at the local, biome, or national scale. Importantly, these Standards define what is considered native seed in ecological restoration and highlight the differences between native seeds versus seeds of improved genetics. Seed testing approaches are provided within a logical framework that outline the many different dormancy states in native seed that can confound restoration outcomes. A "pro‐forma" template for a production label is included as a practical tool that can be customized for local needs and to standardize reporting to end‐users on the level of seed quality and germinability to be expected in a native seed batch. These Standards are not intended to be mandatory; however, the guidance statements provide the foundation upon which regulatory approaches can be developed by constituencies and jurisdictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out to determine seed longevity in organic and conventionally produced pepper seeds from four different pepper cultivars. Seeds were stored at 20±2 °C with 7.5±0.5 seed moisture over 48 months. Longevity of seeds were evaluated with Ki (initial seed quality), P50 (half-viability period), σ (standard deviation of distribution of seed deaths in time), and regression coefficient values. The highest longevity was observed in 'Corbaci' and 'Yaglik' cultivars, while 'Surmeli' and 'K. Dolma' were found to have shorter longevity. P50 was 43.4 and 40.2 months for 'Corbacı' and 34.9 and 39.7 months for 'Yaglık' organic and conventional cultivars, respectively, whereas it was about 21.4 and 23.7 months in 'K. Dolma' and 'Surmeli' cultivars. Similarly, the highest σ and regression coefficient values were observed for 'Corbaci' and the lowest for 'Surmeli' cultivars. Organic and conventional pepper seed longevity was not different in the same species. Regression coefficient values were 0.043 in organic and 0.046 in conventional seeds for 'Corbaci'. Very close values were found between the two production systems for the other cultivars too. Results indicate that organic seeds had similar longevity to conventional ones. The main differences originated from the cultivars, not from the production system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent evidence points to relationships between intra-specific seed mass variation and viability loss in response to ageing stress. However, little is known about how seed quality may change temporally in response to such stress. Here we examined seed–water relations of mass-separated Rudbeckia mollis seeds to better understand physiological status among mass classes. We then evaluated seed viability and vigour changes in response to various storage conditions or post-storage vigour tests (a 41°C, 75% RH stress for up to 45 d). We found similar pre-storage physiology among mass classes. However, seeds of lower mass deteriorated up to 1.5-fold faster than heavier seeds under certain conditions. Stressing seeds after storage resulted in distinct vigour differences among mass classes. For example, vigour in lower mass seeds tended to decline more compared to heavier seeds following storage in a climate-controlled room. Alternatively, vigour loss varied among mass classes following storage in a non-climate-controlled shed. Our results highlight the importance of distinguishing between pre-sowing storage and post-storage vigour effects when quantifying relative levels of viability loss among seeds of different mass. Furthermore, differential responses to storage and ageing stress among mass classes may have important implications for post-storage regeneration and subsequent population dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed storage under controlled temperature and humidity maintains the viability and the vigor of seeds for a long time while preserving their longevity. Ex situ conservation in a seed storage chamber is perfect for simulating the cool dry conditions that are associated with long-term seed storage. This helps to preserve the availability of seeds for the recovery of degraded areas and to ensure a supply of propagating material for various purposes in silvicultural production, or as raw materials for biotechnological use. The present work evaluated the physical and physiological quality of Enterolobium contortisiliquum (Vell.) Morong seeds from an ex situ collection that was kept in a seed storage chamber at 6 °C ± 3 °C and with 60% ± 5% of RH in waterproof packaging. The water content, the physical quality by X-ray tests, germination, electrical conductivity, and the integrity and quality of RNA that was extracted from the embryonic axes were all determined. It was possible to identify full, damaged, malformed, translucent, and empty seeds. The seeds that had been stored for 1, 5, 9, and 10 years presented 78, 82, 42, and 38% of normal seedlings, respectively, while the lots of 6 and 7 years presented 0 and 6%. The seed storage conditions were the same for all of the lots. A water content higher than 6% influenced the quality of the seeds. The E. contortisiliquum seeds demonstrated high longevity. They could be stored for up to 10 years under controlled conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]