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Seed storage life in tropical areas is shortened by high humidity and temperature and the general inaccessibility to dehumidifying and refrigeration systems, resulting in rapid decreases in seed viability in storage as well as a high incidence of fungal and insect infestations. The dry chain, based on rapid and deep drying of seeds after harvest followed by packaging in moisture-proof containers, has been proposed as an effective method to maintain seed quality during medium-term storage in humid climates, even without refrigeration. In addition, seed drying with zeolite drying beads can be more effective and economical than sun or heated-air drying under these warm, humid conditions. In this paper, we review recent published literature regarding the dry chain, considering different crop species, storage environments and seed traits. In addition, we provide new original data on the application of dry chain methods and their implementation at larger scales in South Asia, Latin America and Pacific Island Countries. The clear conclusion is that the combination of reusable drying beads and waterproof storage containers enables the implementation of the dry chain in tropical climates, enhancing seed viability and quality in storage of many crop species. The dry chain approach can therefore significantly enhance seed security for farmers in many tropical countries. Finally, we propose actions and strategies that could guide further scaling-up implementation of this technology.

Background: Early seed germination in crops can confer a competitive advantage against weeds and reduce the time to maturation and harvest. WRKY transcription factors regulate many aspects of plant development including seed dormancy and germination. Both positive and negative regulators of seed germination have been reported in many plants such as rice and Arabidopsis. Using a transient expression system, we previously demonstrated that OsWRKY71 is a negative regulator of gibberellin (GA) signaling in aleurone cells and likely forms a "repressosome" complex with other transcriptional repressors. Hence, it has the potential to impact seed germination properties. Results: In this study, we demonstrate that OsWRKY71, a Group IIa WRKY gene, appeared at the same time as seed-bearing plants. Rice mutants lacking OsWRKY71 have seeds and embryos that germinate earlier than wildtype controls. In oswrky71 aleurone layers, α-amylase activity was hypersensitive to stimulation by GA3 and hyposensitive to inhibition by abscisic acid (ABA). Early germination in oswrky71 intact seeds was also hyposensitive to ABA. Transcriptomic profiling during embryo germination and early post-germination growth demonstrates that OsWRKY71 influences the expression of 9–17% of genes in dry and imbibing embryos. Compared to wildtype embryos, the mutant transcriptomes have large temporal shifts at 4, 8 and 12 h after imbibition (HAI). Importantly, many genes involved in the ABA-dependent inhibition of seed germination were downregulated in oswrky71-1. This mutant also displayed altered expression of multiple ABA receptors (OsPYLs/RCARs) that control ABA signaling and the VP1-SDR4-DOG1L branch of ABA signaling that promotes seed dormancy. Association studies reveal an OsWRKY71-containing quantitative trait locus involved in low-temperature seed germinability, qLTG-2. Indeed, oswrky71 seeds germinated early at 15 °C. Conclusions: Rice Group-IIa WRKY transcription factor OsWRKY71 is a master regulator of germination that influences the expression of 9–17% of genes in dry and imbibing embryos. It is also most likely the primary candidate of low-temperature seed germinability QTL, qLTG-2. We propose that knockouts of OsWRKY71 can generate rice varieties with improved germination properties under normal or low-temperature conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed dispersal by frugivores is a crucial step of the life cycle of most plants, influencing plant population and community dynamics. Although very important for most ecosystems, we are just beginning to understand which are the mechanisms driving frugivore‐mediated seed dispersal. Most studies identifying the drivers of seed dispersal use interaction frequency as a proxy for estimating seed dispersal success, rather than looking at the functional outcomes of those interactions (e.g., contributions to successful seed germination). A valuable tool to link plant–frugivore interactions to seed dispersal success is the seed dispersal effectiveness (SDE) framework, which accounts for the quantity and quality components of seed dispersal. We evaluated which mechanisms, including morphological traits, trait matching and phenological overlap of interacting species, as well as degree of frugivory and feeding behaviour of frugivores, influenced the quantity (interaction frequency and number of seeds dispersed per visit) and quality (seed germination after gut passage) components of SDE. To this end, we combined three methods (focal observations, mist‐netting and camera traps) to sample interactions between plants, birds and mammals in a species‐rich community of Cerrado in southeastern Brazil. We recorded 590 pairwise interactions between 34 plants and 49 frugivores. We found that phenological overlap among interacting species explained most of the variation in interaction frequencies. Trait matching affected the number of seeds dispersed per visit more for gulpers than mashers and peckers, and frugivore body mass and seed sizes positively affected seed germination. Finally, interaction frequencies had a stronger contribution to SDE, compared with the number of seeds dispersed per visit and seed germination, indicating an indirect effect of phenological overlap on SDE. Synthesis. We found that highly abundant plant–frugivore species with the most overlap in their phenologies also yield the highest values of SDE, suggesting that phenological overlap was the most important driver of SDE in this hyperdiverse community. However, the number of seeds dispersed per visit also influenced SDE and seed germination was species‐specific, suggesting that estimating SDE at the community level is necessary to understand how communities work, and the current and future challenges they face. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Flooding is a widespread natural disaster that causes tremendous yield losses of global food production. Rice is the only cereal capable of growing in aquatic environments. Direct seeding by which seedlings grow underwater is an important cultivation method for reducing rice production cost. Hypoxic germination tolerance and root growth in waterlogged soil are key traits for rice adaptability to flooded environments. Alternative oxidase (AOX) is a non‐ATP‐producing terminal oxidase in the plant mitochondrial electron transport chain, but its role in hypoxia tolerance had been unclear. We have discovered that AOX1a is necessary and sufficient to promote germination/coleoptile elongation and root development in rice under flooding/hypoxia. Hypoxia enhances endogenous H2O2 accumulation, and H2O2 in turn activates an ensemble of regulatory genes including AOX1a to facilitate the conversion of deleterious reactive oxygen species to H2O2 in rice under hypoxia. We show that AOX1a and H2O2 act interdependently to coordinate three key downstream events, that is, glycolysis/fermentation for minimal ATP production, root aerenchyma development and lateral root emergence under hypoxia. Moreover, we reveal that ectopic AOX1a expression promotes vigorous root and plant growth, and increases grain yield under regular irrigation conditions. Our discoveries provide new insights into a unique sensor–second messenger pair in which AOX1a acts as the sensor perceiving low oxygen tension, while H2O2 accumulation serves as the second messenger triggering downstream root development in rice against hypoxia stress. This work also reveals AOX1a genetic manipulation and H2O2 pretreatment as potential targets for improving flooding tolerance in rice and other crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND RESULTS CONCLUSION Agronomic uses of biochar have been intensely explored in the last 15 years. Recently, a new generation of biochar‐based fertilizers has been developed. Raw biochar (BCH), nitrogen‐enriched biochar (N + BCH) or urea were added to a coir fiber‐based substrate for tomato cultivation, to assess seed germination, growth and fruiting of two cultivars (Cuarenteno and Moneymaker).BCH stimulated seed germination and early radicle growth, possibly because of the presence of karrikins detected in both BCH and N‐BCH (0.039 and 0.044 mg kg−1, respectively). However, BCH reduced growth in adult plants in both cultivars, probably because of ammonium retention, causing low‐N‐stress‐related symptoms such as accumulation of flavonoids in the leaf. Urea was toxic for seed germination because of the fast release of ammonium, but caused a positive effect on adult plant growth and yield, increasing chlorophyll in both cultivars, quantum yield and ascorbic acid in cv. Cuarenteno, and decreasing flavonoids and peroxide in leaves of both cultivars. Unlike urea, N + BCH showed a positive impact on plant growth and yield, but without releasing high amounts of ammonium or negatively affecting seed germination. Nitrogen‐rich amendments reduced phosphorus and increased iron leaf content in both cultivars.BCH can be effectively used as a growth medium constituent in nurseries for seedling production, whereas N + BCH offers a promising alternative to urea or other nitrogen mineral fertilizers for crop cultivation. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual reproduction through seeds is an effective way to renew plant populations and increase their genetic diversity, but seed germination process is complicated and relatively difficult due to the restriction of environmental conditions. Wetland plants that reproduce sexually through seeds may be affected by changes in moisture and temperature. This study aims to explore the ecological adaptation strategies of seed germination of Lilium concolor var. megalanthum under different hydrothermal conditions. Controlled experiments were conducted to investigate the germination performance of L. concolor var. megalanthum seeds at different temperatures (10°C, 15°C, 20°C, 25°C, and 30°C) and simulated drought stress conditions using PEG-6000 solutions (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%). The results showed that temperature, drought stress, and their interaction significantly affected the days to first germination, germination percentage, coefficient of germination rate, germination energy, germination index, and vigor index of seeds (p <0.01). The germination percentage, germination index, and vigor index of seed were significantly higher at 25°C compared to other temperatures (p <0.01). The interaction between low temperature and drought stress significantly delayed the days to first germination. The inhibition of drought stress on seed germination was enhanced by PEG-6000 solution under high temperature. Under the conditions of 25°C and 5% PEG-6000 solution concentration, seeds of L. concolor var. megalanthum exhibited optimal germination parameters. At 10°C and 15°C, the seeds exhibited the highest tolerance to PEG-6000-simulated drought stress. Rehydration germination results showed that extreme temperatures and drought stress conditions inhibit seed germination of L. concolor var. megalanthum without damaging seed structure. The germination pattern of seeds under variable temperature and drought stress conditions reflects their adaptive strategies developed over long-term evolution to cope with the environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trichoderma species are ubiquitous saprophytic fungi commonly found in soil, with potential as fungal biocontrol agents for plant disease control and growth promotion. This research aimed to assess the attributes of Trichoderma sp. as plant growth promoters, focusing on nitrogen fixation, siderophore production, plant nutrient solubilization and indole-3-acetic acid production. Out of 19 isolates tested, 6 (T05, T19, T25, T27, T28 and T33) showed superior plant growth promotion abilities. These isolates were further evaluated for their capacity to enhance the germination of Khao Dawk Mali 105 rice seeds. Seeds were soaked in a suspension of conidia at a concentration of 1x1012 conidia/mL, and germination rates were measured. The germination rate ranged between 77.67 - 86.67%, statistically significantly higher than the control rate of 33.33%. Among the isolates, T05 exhibited the highest promotion of plant growth, evidenced by root length (7.27 cm), shoot length (8.50 cm), fresh weight (0.54 g) and dry weight (0.27 g), all significantly different from the control. Additionally, the potential of isolates to inhibit the fungal pathogen Colletotrichum sp. MN-3 was assessed using a dual culture method, with T35 showing the highest inhibition percentage (60.90%). Morphological classification and nucleotide sequencing of the ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 region of rDNA gene identified the isolates as T. harzianum, T. reesei, T. asperellum and T. longibrachiatum. These findings underscore the effectiveness of Trichoderma sp. in promoting plant growth and suppressing plant pathogenic fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Germin-like proteins (GLPs) play important roles in the regulation of various plant development processes, such as seed vigor, root and leaf development and disease resistance, while the roles of GLPs on agronomic traits are rarely studied in Brassica napus. Here, we identified GLPs family genes in rapeseed and analyzed their potential functions. There are 77 GLPs family genes (BnGLPs) in the Zhongshuang11 rapeseed reference genome, divided into a, b, c, d, e, f six subfamilies. Tissue expression profile analysis of BnGLPs revealed the following: e subfamily genes were highly expressed in early stages of silique, cotyledon, vegetative rosette and leaf development; f subfamily genes were highly expressed in seed development; genes of a subfamily were mainly expressed in the root; and genes of b, c, d subfamily exhibited low-level or no expression in above mentioned tissues. RT-qPCR analysis confirmed that the transcripts of two f subfamily members decreased dramatically during seed germination, suggesting that f subfamily proteins may play vital roles in the early stage of seed germination. Transcriptome analysis of axillary buds in sequential developing stages revealed that the transcripts of eight e subfamily genes showed a rapid increase at the beginning of shoot branching, implying that the e subfamily members played vital roles in branch development. These results demonstrate that rapeseed BnGLPs likely play essential roles in seedling development, root development and plant architecture, indicating that harnessing certain BnGLPs may contribute to the improvement of rapeseed yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The primary contribution of this study was a fungus (Coprinellus radians) from Cremastra appendiculata rhizomes to be isolated and identified, and it could effectively enhance the seeds germination and seedlings development of C. appendiculata. • After co-culturing C. appendiculata seeds and C. radians for 30 days, the seeds germination rate reached over 75 %, and the protocorm seedlings rate closed to 95 % after 60 days. • The histological structure observation showed that the hyphae or pelotons of C. radians mainly colonized in the cells of the embryo, rhizomes, and roots of C. appendiculata , there they were digested and absorbed to use for the development both the protocorms and seedlings. • The exogenous additives had a negative impact for the seeds germination of C. appendiculata , but the addition of cottonseed hull had a good effect for the seedlings development. • This study not only established a foundation for future research of the symbiosis between C. appendiculata and fungi, but also provided a theoretical basis for artificial propagation of this species. Cremastra appendiculata (D. Don) Makino is a rare perennial medicinal plant with significant medicinal and ornamental value. Its seeds exhibit a low germination rate in nature due to the species' dependency on fungi to facilitate germination. In this study, six strains (Clonostachys sp., Paecilomyces variotii, Meyerozyma guilliermondii, Lecanicillium sp., Coprinellus radians, Trichoderma harzianum) were isolated from the rhizomes of C. appendiculata and co-cultured with the seeds in vitro to investigate their impact on promoting germination. The results revealed that the isolated Coprinellus radians effectively promoted the germination of C. appendiculata seeds under the conditions of 25 °C, pH=7 and dark, the seeds germination rate reached over 75 % on OMA medium with C. radians after 30 days. Further cultivated germinating seeds by the medium (oats 5 g·L-1, agar 8 g·L-1, sucrose 10 g·L-1 and cottonseed hulls 5 g·L-1) can achieve a seedling formation rate closed to 95 % after 60 days. Subsequently, the process of C. appendiculata seedlings formation with C. radians was analyzed through morphological and histological assessments, found the hypha of C. radians initially invaded the embryonic cells of the C. appendiculata seeds and ultimately resided in the rhizome cells of the seedlings. These results provide the foundation for further research on the symbiotic relationship between C. appendiculata and fungi, and offering a new approach for the artificial propagation of this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid and uniform seed germination and seedling emergence have been associated with grain yield under diverse environmental conditions. Twenty-one (21) mung bean accessions were evaluated at Ile-Ife and Kishi out-stations of the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR & T), Nigeria, to identify the emergence parameter(s) that could be selected for improvement of mung bean for yield. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) in three replications. Data were collected on emergence and yield parameters and analysed using the Statistical Analysis Software (SAS). Mean, heritability, and correlation coefficient were estimated. Path coefficient analysis was used to partition correlations into direct and indirect effects using seed yield as the dependent variable. Heritability estimate was moderate to high for most of the traits. Accessions 3, 6, 14 and 15 with high pod and seed yield had also high values of coefficient of velocity of emergence (CVE) and emergence percentage (E%). All emergence parameters except emergence energy had significant correlation with yield traits. CVE and Emergence Index (EI) had strong positive correlation with number of seeds.pod-1 and pod yield. When only the emergence parameters were considered, CVE had highest direct effect (0.74) on seed yield followed by E% (-0.73) and EI (0.70). Total indirect effects of EI and CVE accounted for only 6.06% and 11.9% of the total correlation, respectively. It therefore suggests that EI and CVE are emergence parameters that could be selected for at early stage in improvement of mung bean for yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] The effects of ultraviolet (UV-B) irradiation on seed germination and related gene expression of sweet maize were studied to provide basis for analyzing molecular regulation mechanism of UV-B irradiation promoting seed activity. [Method] Sweet corn inbred T28 seeds were selected with six UV-B radiation treatments of 0 (CK), 0. 5, 1, 2, 4 and 8 h durations. Phenotypic and physiological indexes of seeds in treatments and the CK were compared and analyzed, and the differentially expressed genes promoting seed germination were screened by transcriptome sequencing technology. [Result] UV-B radiation for 1 h led to the highest germination rate of sweet corn inbred line T28 seeds, and germination potential, germination index and vigor index increased first and then decreased with the prolongation of UV-B treatment time with the highest values at 1 h. CAT and POD activities and free proline contents of seeds treated with UV-B irradiation for 1 and 2 h were higher than those of CK after 72 h germination. The trend expression analysis of differentially expressed genes under CK, 1 and 2 h irradiation treatments obtained 8 gene set profiles (0-7) with different trends. A total of 1 716 transcripts in profile2 showed a trend of decreasing first and then increasing, and 919 transcripts in profile5 showed a trend of increasing first and then decreasing. GO enrichment analysis showed that protein phosphorylation, integral component of membrane, transferase activity and transfer hexose group of profile2 were most significantly enriched in biological processes, cell components and molecular function categories, respectively. The profile5 genes concentrated in structural components of translation, ribosomes, and structural constituent of ribosome. KEGG enrichment analysis showed that the significantly enriched pathways of profile2 gene set were mainly annotated in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, biosynthesis of secondary metabolites and metabolic pathways, while those of profile5 gene set were starch and sucrose metabolism, oxidative phosphorylation and proteasome. The cluster analysis showed that the 13 genes in starch and sucrose metabolic pathways were significantly up-regulated in 1 h treatment. [Conclusion] UV-B treatments improved germination and viability of sweet maize inbred T28 seeds with the best effects in 1 h treatment. It is speculated that differentially expressed genes under different treatment times were closely related to seed vigor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] This study investigated the change patterns and interactions of eight endogenous hormones from seed germination to seedling establishment in Docynia delavayi to provide basis for the further industrialisation of Docynia delavayi. [Method] Docynia delavayi seeds from Nuozhadu Town, Lancang County, Yunnan Province were used as materials, seed drying stage (S1) and swelling stage (S2) of Docynia delavayi seeds from Nuozhadu Town, Lancang County, Yunnan Province were determined based on the amount of water absorbed by seeds. Changes in external morphological characteristics of seeds at different stages were used to determine seed germination stage (S3),seedling emergence stage (S4) and seedling establishment stage (S5),and the water content, germination rate, and water absorption characteristics of the seeds were analyzed. Contents of eight endogenous hormones including abscisic acid (ABA),indoleacetic acid (IAA),zeatin riboside (tZR),gibberellin (GA3),jasmonic acid (JA),salicylic acid (SA),ethylene (ETH) and strigolactone (SL) were determined by UPLC-MS/MS, their dynamic changes and ratios were analyzed, and the correlation analysis and principal component analysis were conducted for the five periods. [Result] The average moisture content of Docynia delavayi fifty seeds was 10. 49%,and the germination rate was 96. 00%,and five periods of 0,3,11,18,and 27 d were identified between seed germination and seedling establishment based on changes in seed water absorption characteristics and external morphological features. Contents of ABA and JA decreased considerably from S1 to S3,contents of IAA,tZR,GA3,SA and ETH tended to increase from S2 to S4,and contents of GA3 and ETH continued to increase from S4 to S5. Ratios of IAA,tZR,SA and ETH to ABA and JA increased significantly during S3,while ratios of GA3 and SL to ABA and JA increased significantly during S4. Contents of the eight endogenous hormones varied greatly among all five periods (S1-S5). There were highly significant positive correlations between ABA and JA with IAA,tZR,GA3 and SL contents, and highly significant positive correlations between ABA and JA contents, positive correlations between IAA,tZR,GA3 and SL contents, and negative correlations with SA and ETH contents. [Conclusion] The changes of Docynia delavayi seeds from germination to seedling establishment were resulted from the joint action of eight hormones. IAA,tZR,SA,ETH,SL and GA3 synergistically promoted seed germination and seedling establishment, and ABA and JA synergistically inhibited seed germination. Changes in ratios of IAA,GA3, tZR, SA, ETH and SL to ABA and JA reflected hormone homeostasis during the periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ammonia (NH3), which is an intermediate of nitrogen metabolism, has been found to be a gasotransmitter in plants. It has a dual physiological effect in a concentration-dependent manner, namely as a signaling molecule at low concentrations and a cytotoxin at high concentrations. In plants, NH3, as a gasotransmitter, can maintain homeostasis by multiple pathways, which are involving in biosynthesis, assimilation, and transport. Gasotransmitter NH3 can regulate plant growth, development, and response to multiple environmental stresses by crosstalk with other signaling molecules. However, a few reviews have summarized NH3 homeostasis and its signaling role in plant growth and stress response. Hence, in this review, based on the progress in NH3, whose toxicity, metabolism, and membrane transport were summarized. Also, the signaling role of NH3 in cell division, seed germination, and root system architecture was discussed. Furthermore, NH3-induced stress resistance, including drought, heat, salt, iron deficiency, elevated CO2, and pathogen infection tolerance, was summed up. This review is to further understanding the gasotransmitter role of NH3, and lays the foundation for designing and developing climate-resilient crops for food safety and sustainable agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malnutrition is one of the greatest challenges faced by humanity, which may be addressed by improving crop productivity to ensure food security. However, extensive use of synthetic fertilizers can lead to soil fertility degradation. This study highlights the potential of combining nanotechnology with biotechnology to enhance the germination rates of commercially important crop seeds. Bacterial biosurfactant extracted from a newly isolated Klebsiella sp. strain RGUDBI03 was used as a reducing and capping agent for the synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) through a simple method. Extensive characterization of ZnO NPs through electron microscopic analysis showed well-dispersed, homogeneous NPs with a size range of 2–10 nm. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) images also revealed molecular fringes of 0.26 nm in single crystal ZnO NPs, with approximately 50% of the NPs exhibiting a size range of 2–4 nm. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results of ZnO NPs indicated the presence of (100), (002), (101), (102), (200), and (112) planes, confirming their crystalline nature. The presence of C = C–H, C = C, C–H, and C = C groups in both the bacterial biosurfactant and ZnO NPs, as depicted by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra, confirmed the function of the biosurfactant as a reducing and capping agent. The nano-primed chickpea (Cicer arietinum) and rice (Oryza sativa) seeds showed an increase in water uptake rate, 89% and 92% respectively, compared to the control (73% and 44%), leading to an enhanced germination rate of 98% and 76%, compared to their respective controls (80% and 30%) under optimized conditions. Additionally, the nano-primed seeds exhibited higher levels of α-amylase activity in both seeds (0.37 mg/g for chickpea and 2.49 mg/g for rice) compared to the control. Notably, the ZnO NP priming solution exhibited no cytotoxicity on red blood cells and earthworms (Eudrilus eugeniae), indicating their non-cytotoxic and eco-friendly nature for future field trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable agriculture requires the exploration and development of eco-friendly technologies to increase crop production. From the last few decades, nonthermal atmospheric pressure plasma (NTAPP) based technology appears as an encouraging frontier in this quest. NTAPP with low temperature and energetic gas-phase chemistry offers potential applications to promote seed germination rate and plant growth. It initiates a cascade of biological responses at molecular levels inside the seed as well as in plants, greater nutrient uptake, elevated antioxidant activity, and pathogen control to ensure improved germination, seedling growth, plant growth, and increased harvesting. NTAPP technology has become more popular and convenient in agriculture due to its potential to produce plasma-activated water (PAW), which harnesses useful reactive species with PAW irrigation to promote plant growth. Recent advancements in NTAPP technology and its applications to promote seed germination, seedling growth, plant growth, and metabolite synthesis were summarized in this review. We delve deeper to examine the possible mechanisms that underlie the involvement of reactive species from NTAPP, surface interactions, and gene expression regulation. We also have discussed the applications of NTAPP in seed priming, pre-planting treatments, and disease control for food preservation. For sustainable agriculture, NTAPP stands out as an eco-friendly technology with the potential to revolutionize crop production of the modern age. Many researchers proved that NTAPP reduces the need for agrochemicals and presents a viable path toward sustainable agriculture. This review will provide recent progress by outlining major challenges and shaping future directions for harnessing the potential of NTAPP in agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Centaurea melitensis L., known commonly as Malta thistle, is an aggressive and invasive weed species native to the Mediterranean region. This species now occupies a diverse range of ecosystems and climate types across the globe, including the semi‐arid zone of New South Wales, Australia. This semi‐arid climate differs dramatically from its native Mediterranean climate, therefore, we aimed to identify if local adaptations in the seed ecology for C. melitensis have developed. Seeds were collected from mature C. melitensis at Nanya Station, located within the Scotia region of NSW, and then transported to Federation University Australia, Mt. Helen, Victoria. Under laboratory conditions, mature seeds were tested for their germination responses to temperature (17/7, 25/15, 30/20, 35/25°C), photoperiod (12 h light and 12 h dark [L/D], 24 h dark [D]), salinity (0, 25, 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 mM), osmotic potential (0, −0.1, −0.2, −0.4, −0.6, and −0.8 MPa), and pH (5, 6, 6.2, 7, 8, 9, and 10). The seeds achieved 100% germination in the 17/7°C treatment, with light not being a limiting factor. The seeds exposed to the 25/15°C (D) and 30/20°C (D) treatments also maintained high germination percentage, whilst germination was significantly reduced in the 35/25°C (D) treatment. The L/D photoperiod maintained a 77.5% germination rate at 35/25°C. Whilst increased salinity reduced seed germination from 97.5% in the control to 6% at 250 mM, this species nevertheless demonstrated resistance to osmotic stress with 23% germination observed at 0.8 MPa. Germination exceeded 90% at all of the soil pH treatments, although mean germination time was significantly reduced when seeds were treated with a solution of pH 10. Our results demonstrate that the C. melitensis seeds collected in Australia's semi‐arid zone demonstrated high germination plasticity and are capable of competitive germination in warmer and drier conditions compared to its native Mediterranean climate. Therefore, management efforts that prioritise restricting the spread of C. melitensis seeds into new environments, for example through practising correct sanitation protocols, coupled with the early detection and control of emerging populations will be critical for C. melitensis management in Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual reproduction through seeds is an effective way to renew plant populations and increase their genetic diversity, but seed germination process is complicated and relatively difficult due to the restriction of environmental conditions. Wetland plants that reproduce sexually through seeds may be affected by changes in moisture and temperature. This study aims to explore the ecological adaptation strategies of seed germination of Lilium concolor var. megalanthum under different hydrothermal conditions. Controlled experiments were conducted to investigate the germination performance of L. concolor var. megalanthum seeds at different temperatures (10°C, 15°C, 20°C, 25°C, and 30°C) and simulated drought stress conditions using PEG-6000 solutions (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%). The results showed that temperature, drought stress, and their interaction significantly affected the days to first germination, germination percentage, coefficient of germination rate, germination energy, germination index, and vigor index of seeds (p<0.01). The germination percentage, germination index, and vigor index of seed were significantly higher at 25°C compared to other temperatures (p<0.01). The interaction between low temperature and drought stress significantly delayed the days to first germination. The inhibition of drought stress on seed germination was enhanced by PEG-6000 solution under high temperature. Under the conditions of 25°C and 5% PEG-6000 solution concentration, seeds of L. concolor var. megalanthum exhibited optimal germination parameters. At 10°C and 15°C, the seeds exhibited the highest tolerance to PEG-6000-simulated drought stress. Rehydration germination results showed that extreme temperatures and drought stress conditions inhibit seed germination of L. concolor var. megalanthum without damaging seed structure. The germination pattern of seeds under variable temperature and drought stress conditions reflects their adaptive strategies developed over longterm evolution to cope with the environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comparative morphological study was carried out to evaluate the taxonomic significance of seed and seedling traits of Bentinckia condapanna and B. nicobarica (Arecaceae), the threatened endemic palm species. Both species are unique and have specific requirements for seedling recruitment. An effort was made to cultivate these species ex situ at the Botanical Survey of India's National Orchidarium and Experimental Garden (NOEG) in Yercaud, Tamil Nadu, and Dhanikhari Experimental Garden cum Arboretum (DEGCA), in Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The seeds and seedlings of the two species differ in the beak and ridges on the seed, endosperm colour and the shape of the eophyll. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protected areas form the backbone of global conservation efforts. Vegetation is the primary foundation for achieving conservation goals, and soil seed banks is a cryptic biodiversity reservoir for recruiting species that may not be represented in above‐ground vegetation. Unfortunately, unmanaged grazing by wild herbivores has led to vegetation degradation in semi‐arid to arid regions. However, experimental evidence on the long‐term impacts of wild herbivores on soil seed banks is largely lacking. Here, with the aim of examining how wild herbivores impact soil seed banks, we investigated the composition of the germinable seed banks in three protected areas (Yathong, Mungo and Boolcoomatta) along a semi‐arid to arid precipitation gradient in south‐eastern Australia. The density and species richness of the soil seed banks increased with increasing aridity, which indicated that the soil seed banks in arid regions is an important biodiversity reservoir. The effects of wild herbivores on soil seed density were strongly dependent on precipitation. Wild herbivores disrupted the soil seed banks at the most arid site but promoted the accumulation of seeds in the soil at the least arid site. Grazing was linked to an increase in the frequency of the seeds of introduced species and decrease in the frequency of the seeds of perennials. Synthesis and applications: Disruption of the soil seed banks by the grazing of wild herbivores could lead to the failure of post‐rain pulses of vegetation growth and hamper efforts to restore vegetation in protected areas. Therefore, suppressing wild herbivore numbers is a strategy that could enhance soil seed bank reserves and revegetation efforts in arid protected areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT A crucial phenotypic attribute for breeding rice for direct seeded condition is rapid uniform germination and build‐up of biomass during the initial period of seedling establishment. Seed vigour constitutes such traits that have gained potential to meet the requirements of breeding for direct seeded rice. In the present study, a set of 295 markers, including 215 candidate gene‐derived markers covering all chromosome, was used to discover the casual alleles for eight rice seed vigour‐related traits. Using a mixed linear model, the study identified 99 significant associations for seed vigour traits. Many associated markers originated from diverse candidate genes in rice. Notably, alleles from genes like RSR1, OsSRS3 and OsSWEET15 exhibited pleiotropic effects, influencing multiple seed vigour traits. This discovery underscores the potential of certain genes to impact various facets of seed vigour simultaneously. The new candidate gene markers associated with seed vigour traits may be utilized to incorporate variable alleles for seed vigour traits through marker‐assisted breeding programmes. Markers identified to be closely associated with more than one trait have significant application in the simultaneous improvement of multiple traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Seed germination is a key process in the plant life cycle that affects the vegetative and reproductive stages of plants. Although the JAZ gene family has been characterized in many plants, the relationship between the JAZ gene and seed germination is still unclear. Results: We identified two members of the JAZ family from wheat, TaTIFY3B and TaTIFY10A. TaTIFY3B and TaTIFY10A were localized in both the cell membrane and nucleus. Spatio-temporal expression analysis of TaTIFY3B and TaTIFY10A in wheat revealed that these genes are essential for the preharvest sprouting (PHS) stage of seed development, with expression levels significantly decreasing during the ripening period. Transgenic rice plants overexpressing wheat TaTIFY3B and TaTIFY10A improved seed germination rates. Transgenic Arabidopsis plants overexpressing wheat TaTIFY10A improved seed germination rates and promoted flowering. In addition, abscisic acid (ABA) and jasmonic acid (JA) were found to induce TaTIFY3B and TaTIFY10A expression. Under different ABA concentrations, the seed germination rates of transgenic rice and Arabidopsis overexpressing TaTIFY3B and TaTIFY10A are superior to wild-type (WT) and mutant plants, and the root lengths of Arabidopsis overexpressing TaTIFY3B and TaTIFY10A also change. Under different JA concentrations, there is no difference in the seed germination rate of rice overexpressing TaTIFY3B and TaTIFY10A compared to WT and mutant plants, but there is a significant difference in the seed germination rate and root length of overexpressing Arabidopsis compared to WT and mutant plants. Under different concentrations of salt and drought treatments, the seed germination rate and root length of overexpressing Arabidopsis of TaTIFY3B and TaTIFY10A are affected. Conclusions: This study offers a novel perspective for understanding the molecular basis of pre-harvest sprouting and provides potential candidate genes for controlling wheat seed germination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines seed germination strategies and seedling establishment in six tree species typical of seasonally dry tropical forests. We focused on how interspecific and intraspecific differences in seed size and germination speed influence biomass allocation and seedling growth. Using generalized linear models, we analyzed the effects of these traits on root/shoot ratios and growth rates. Our findings reveal two main strategies: slow germination, high root/shoot ratio, and low growth rate in Erythrina velutina Willd and Terminalia valverdeae A.H. Gentry, associated with enhanced drought tolerance. In contrast, Cynophalla mollis (Kunth) J. Presl and Coccoloba ruiziana Lindau exhibited rapid germination, lower root/shoot ratios, and low to moderate growth rates, favoring competition during early establishment. Centrolobium ochroxylum Rose ex Rudd partially aligned with this second strategy due to its fast growth. Vachellia macracantha (Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd.) Seigler & Ebinger presented a unique case, displaying slow germination and a broad range in both root/shoot ratios and growth rates. At the intraspecific level, significant variation in biomass allocation and growth rate was observed, influenced by germination speed and seed weight. We discuss the adaptive significance of seed traits in SDTFs and their role in seedling establishment under varying environmental conditions, providing insights for strategies for conservation and restoration in these ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungi in the genus Trichoderma are widespread in the environment, mainly in soils. They are used in agriculture because of their mycoparasitic potential; Trichoderma have the ability to increase plant health and provide protection against phytopathogens, making them desirable plant symbionts. We isolated, identified, and characterized Trichoderma from different regions of Saudi Arabia and evaluated the ability of Trichoderma to promote plant growth. Morphological and molecular characterization, along with phylogenetic studies, were utilized to differentiate between Trichoderma species isolated from soil samples in the Abha and Riyadh regions, Saudi Arabia. Then, plant growth-promoting traits of the isolated Trichoderma species were assessed. Eight Trichoderma isolates were characterized via morphological and molecular analysis; six (Trichoderma koningiopsis, Trichoderma lixii, Trichoderma koningii, Trichoderma harzianum, Trichoderma brevicompactum, and Trichoderma velutinum) were from Abha and two (T. lixii and T. harzianum) were from Riyadh. The isolated Trichoderma strains belonged to three different clades (Clade 1: Harzianum, Clade 2: Brevicompactum, and Clade 3: Viride). The Trichoderma isolates varied in plant growth-promoting traits. Seeds treated with most isolates exhibited a high percentage of germination, except seeds treated with the T3-T. koningii isolate. 100% germination was reported for seeds treated with the T4-T. harzianum and T6-T. brevicompactum isolates, while seeds treated with the T1-T. koniniopsis and T5-T. lixii isolates showed 91.1% and 90.9% germination, respectively. Seeds treated with the T8-T. velutinum, T2-T. lixii, and T7-T. harzianum isolates had germination rates of 84.1%, 82.2%, and 72.7%, respectively. The Trichoderma isolate T5-T. lixii stimulated tomato plant growth the most, followed by T7-T. harzianum, T8-T. velutinum, T4-T. harzianum, T1-T. koniniopsis, T2-T. lixii, and T6-T. brevicompactum; the least effective was T3-T. koningii. A maximum fresh weight of 669.33 mg was observed for the T5-T. lixii-treated plants. The Abha region had a higher diversity of Trichoderma species than the Riyadh region, and most isolated Trichoderma spp. promoted tomato growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focused on conservation and large-scale propagation of Begonia dipetala var. hydrophila (C.B. Clarke) Santhosh & Seema through a micropropagation system. An optimized protocol for aseptic seed germination was established using varying concentrations (0.5, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 10.0 µM) of gibberellic acid (GA3), coupled with different incubation temperatures and light conditions. The combination of GA3 (5.0 µM) and 3-d dark incubation under a 16-h photoperiod at 4 °C yielded the highest seed germination percentage (95.20 ± 0.86). Multiple seedlings were induced from individual excised seeds on Murashige and Skoog (MS) basal medium supplemented with 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP; 5.0 µM). Shoot multiplication was optimized through application of BAP (5.0 µM) and various concentrations of 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA). The maximum shoot number (15.20 ± 0.86) was observed after 8 wk of culture on MS medium with BAP (5.0 µM) and NAA (1.5 µM). Root induction occurred on ½ MS medium with 0.2 µM, indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), resulting in the highest number of roots (16) with an average length of 1.24 cm after 4 wk of culture. During acclimatization and hardening from the culture room to the greenhouse, significant increases in photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a and b) and carotenoids were noted. Upon transfer to field conditions, a substantial change in pigment content was observed, stabilizing after 80 to 90 d of acclimatization. Malondialdehyde (MDA) content increased from the culture room to the open field, reaching stability after 80 to 90 d. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities were maximum (6.95 and 10.01, respectively) under greenhouse conditions after 60 d, decreasing upon transfer to an open field and stabilizing at 80 to 90 d. Survival percentages varied during the acclimatization process, with the highest (90%) under greenhouse conditions and 47% under open field conditions after 90 d. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seagrasses provide critical ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, sediment stabilisation and nursery habitat for juvenile fish. Zostera muelleri is ubiquitous within Australian and New Zealand estuaries, however, as a species is relatively understudied. We sourced seeds from a thermally affected east Australian estuary and investigated whether germination rates differed between ambient and thermally affected seeds over a variety of temperatures (16°C–28°C) to determine how seagrass systems might react in a warming climate. Germination for the experiment was low and totalled 5% of all seeds; however, similar numbers are typical in seed germination studies. Germination was highest at 16°C and was enhanced through the simulation of a 48‐h freshwater pulse. Thermally affected sites germinated faster and had greater mean maximum germination when compared to control sites regardless of experimental temperature. These findings indicate that Z. muelleri in this system may be exhibiting transgenerational plasticity due to the thermal stress the parent experiences. This result provides an alternate viewpoint to the current literature by suggesting that unknown transgenerational effects may provide Z. muelleri with greater germination plasticity against temperatures expected under predicted climate change scenarios than previously expected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, returning rice straw to soil has become a common problem in wheat production because it causes decreased wheat seedling emergence. Allelopathy is an important factor affecting seed germination. However, the effects of rice straw extracts on wheat seed germination and seedling growth remain unclear. Wheat seeds and seedlings were treated with 30 g L−1 of rice leaf extracts (L1), 60 g L−1 of rice leaf extracts (L2), 30 g L−1 of rice stem extracts (S1), 60 g L−1 of rice stem extracts (S2) and sterile water (CK) to study the allelopathic effects of rice straw extracts on wheat seed germination and seedling growth. The α-amylase and antioxidant enzyme activities in wheat seeds; the agronomic traits, photosynthetic indicators, and nutrient contents of wheat seedlings; and the phenolic acids in rice stem extracts were determined. Common allelochemicals, including 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, hydrocinnamic acid, trans-cinnamic acid, vanillic acid, benzoic acid, protocatechualdehyde, caffeic acid, syringic acid, sinapic acid, and salicylic acid, were detected in rice stem extracts. Low-concentration rice leaf and stem extracts (30 g L−1) had no effect on the germination rate of wheat seeds. High-concentration (60 g L−1) rice stem and leaf extracts decreased the seed germination rate by 11.00% and 12.02%. Rice stem extract (60 g L−1) decreased the α-amylase activity, and gibberellin content of wheat seeds but increased superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase activities and malondialdehyde content in wheat seeds. Allelochemicals entered the internal tissues of wheat seeds, where they decreased the gibberellin content and α-amylase activity and increased the antioxidant enzyme activity, ultimately leading to an inhibitory effect on seed germination. Rice stem and leaf extracts decreased the SPAD value and photosynthetic indicators of wheat seedlings. Rice stem extract (60 g L−1) decreased the fresh weight and root length of wheat seedlings by 31.37% and 45.46%. Low-concentration rice leaf and stem extract (30 g L−1) had no effect on the nutrient contents of wheat seedlings. Rice leaf and stem extracts (60 g L−1) decreased the nitrogen and potassium contents of wheat seedlings. These results indicated that low-concentration rice leaf and stem extract (30 g L−1) had no effect on wheat seed germination and the high-concentration rice stem extract (60 g L−1) released allelochemicals and inhibited wheat seed germination and seedling growth. These findings provide a basis for the improvement of straw return techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought is a major limiting factor in the cultivation of Sophora alopecuroides in China's arid and semi-arid regions. This study aimed to identify drought-resistant S. alopecuroides ecotypes and explore key drought tolerance indicators during germination by simulating drought conditions with a 10% PEG-6000 solution, using pure water as a control. Determination of seven germination indicators for S. alopecuroides, including germination rate (GR), germination energy (GE), germination index (GI), vigor index (VI), promptness index (PI), fresh weight (FW), and dry weight (DW), was conducted. Principal component analysis (PCA), membership function, cluster analysis, and linear regression were employed to comprehensively evaluate the drought resistance of thirty-five S. alopecuroides ecotypes. The results showed that drought stress caused reductions in six of the seven indicators across all ecotypes, except for DW, compared to the control. Correlation analysis revealed varying relationships among the indicators, with most showing significant or highly significant correlations. PCA reduced the seven indicators to two independent comprehensive factors, with a cumulative contribution rate of 83.99%. Based on the D-value and cluster analysis, the thirty-five ecotypes were ranked for drought resistance and classified into four categories. The top five drought-tolerant genotypes during the germination stage were identified as Yutian, Alar, Jinghe, Baoding, and Guyuan. Moreover, the stepwise regression model was established and demonstrated that GR, GE, PI, FW, and DW are key indicators for screening and identifying drought-resistant S. alopecuroides ecotypes. This study offers a comprehensive and reliable method for evaluating drought resistance in S. alopecuroides ecotypes and provides a reference for selecting ecotypes for artificial cultivation in Northwestern China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise: Seed germination involves risk; post‐germination conditions might not allow survival and reproduction. Variable, stressful environments favor seeds with germination that avoids risk (e.g., germination in conditions predicting success), spreads risk (e.g., dormancy), or escapes risk (e.g., rapid germination). Germination studies often investigate trait correlations with climate features linked to variation in post‐germination reproductive success. Rarely are long‐term records of population reproductive success available. Methods: Supported by demographic and climate monitoring, we analyzed germination in the California winter‐annual Clarkia xantiana subsp. xantiana. Sowing seeds of 10 populations across controlled levels of water potential and temperature, we estimated temperature‐specific base water potential for 20% germination, germination time weighted by water potential above base (hydrotime), and a dormancy index (frequency of viable, ungerminated seeds). Mixed‐effects models analyzed responses to (1) temperature, (2) discrete variation in reproductive success (presence or absence of years with zero seed production by a population), and (3) climate covariates, mean winter precipitation and coefficient of variation (CV) of spring precipitation. For six populations, records enabled analysis with a continuous metric of variable reproduction, the CV of per‐capita reproductive success. Results: Populations with more variable reproductive success had higher base water potential and dormancy. Higher base water potential and faster germination occurred at warmer experimental temperatures and in seeds of populations with wetter winters. Conclusions: Geographic variation in seed germination in this species suggests local adaptation to demographic risk and rainfall. High base water potential and dormancy may concentrate germination in years likely to allow reproduction, while spreading risk among years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant-associated microorganisms can negatively influence plant growth, which makes them potential biocontrol agents for weeds. Two Gammaproteobacteria, Serratia plymuthica and Pseudomonas brassicacearum , isolated from roots of Jacobaea vulgaris , an invasive weed, negatively affect its root growth. We examined whether the effects of S. plymuthica and P. brassicacearum on J. vulgaris through root inoculation are concentration-dependent and investigated if these effects were mediated by metabolites in bacterial suspensions. We also tested whether the two bacteria negatively affected seed germination and seedling growth through volatile emissions. Lastly, we investigated the host specificity of these two bacteria on nine other plant species. Both bacteria significantly reduced J. vulgaris root growth after root inoculation, with S. plymuthica showing a concentration-dependent pattern in vitro. The cell-free supernatants of both bacteria did not affect J. vulgaris root growth. Both bacteria inhibited J. vulgaris seed germination and seedling growth via volatiles, displaying distinct volatile profiles. However, these negative effects were not specific to J. vulgaris. Both bacteria negatively affect J. vulgaris through root inoculation via the activity of bacterial cells, while also producing volatiles that hinder J. vulgaris germination and seedling growth. However, their negative effects extend to other plant species, limiting their potential for weed control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The beneficial effects of smoke and its constituents, karrikinolide (KAR1) and cyanohydrin glyceronitrile, on the germination of Mediterranean lowland species are well‐documented. However, very little is known about the role of these signals on the germination of plants at higher altitudes. In addition, lignin‐derived chemicals, such as syringaldehyde (SAL), have recently been proposed as overlooked cues for smoke‐induced germination. To address these gaps in the literature, we investigated the effects of smoke‐water and SAL on the germination of 10 midland species growing on serpentine soils. We also sought to determine whether SAL interacts with KAR1 and/or mandelonitrile (MAN, a cyanohydrin) to enhance seed germination. The results show that smoke‐water significantly improved the germination of three species (Barbarea duralii, Digitalis cariensis and Turritis laxa). SAL, on the other hand, had no positive effect on the germination of the 10 species tested. Furthermore, three smoke‐sensitive species and Verbascum cariense responded to KAR1 and/or MAN. Finally, SAL did not exert any synergistic effects on germination in interaction with KAR1 and MAN. In conclusion, we provide evidence that smoke is an important germination cue also for Mediterranean midland species. Moreover, SAL did not play a role in stimulating germination in smoke‐sensitive species, either independently or in combination with other smoke chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Henan Agricultural Sciences is the property of Editorial Board of Journal of Henan Agricultural Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Asian Journals of Ecotoxicology is the property of Gai Kan Bian Wei Hui and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Agricultural Science & Technology (1008-0864) is the property of Journal of Agricultural Science & Technology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Conservation management and sustainable use of Moringa peregrina are needed to overcome overexploitation coupled with potential environmental changes. This study demonstrates the energy dynamics of M. peregrina, how stored energy influences species persistence amidst environmental challenges, and the importance of energy reserves in the resilience of the species population. Field, greenhouse, and lab experiments were conducted at the levels of population cohorts, plant organs, seeds, and seedlings to demonstrate the relationship between energy content and the persistence of the species. Seedlings and juveniles stored around 12,000 joule/g in roots, while uncoppiced adults stored about 9,000 joule/g in stems, and coppiced adults stored 1,800-4,000 joule/g in lignotubers. In adult trees, the number of sprouting stems is correlated with the energy content in lignotubers. Over the ten years of seed storage, a rapid rate of energy depletion was observed, ranging from 16,821 to 5,059 joule/g, which is associated with decreased germination and viability. The energy content in two-month-old seedlings varied from 240 to 800 joule/seedlings under 200 and 800 mm rainfall, respectively. The unstable population structure could be ascribed to the depletion of stored energy in lignotubers following uncontrolled coppicing and the rapid depletion of seed energy, which hinders the population resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High salinity is an abiotic stress that limits crop production. Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) is an annual fiber crop of the genus Hibiscus in the family Malvaceae with a certain tolerance to salt stress. Seed priming has been shown to ameliorate the adverse effects of salt stress on plants. However, the salt resistance mechanism in kenaf seeds treated with priming agents is not fully understood. In this study, we used four priming agents (H2O, PEG, ABA, KNO3) in different concentrations to treat kenaf seeds, and subjected the induced kenaf seedlings to salt stress (150 mM NaCl) to measure their agronomic traits and physiological and biochemical indicators. Our results indicate that the optimal priming concentration for PEG was 10%, 0.5 μM for ABA, and 0.5% for KNO3. Under these treatment concentrations, the germination rate of kenaf was significantly increased, and the fresh weight was also increased by 35.1%, 33.39%, 20.78% and 15.3%, respectively. Furthermore, the use of priming agents can alleviate the adverse effects of salt stress to a certain extent, significantly increase the agronomic indicators such as plant height, stem thickness, and leaf area of kenaf, enhance the ability of plants to perform photosynthesis, further improve the activity of antioxidant enzymes and increase the content of osmotic material, and reduce the accumulation of cell H2O2, O2− and MDA. Meanwhile, seed priming can also enhance the expression of HcSOS1, HcNHX, HcHKT, HcCBL, HcCIPK, HcPD and HcNCED involved in the salt stress pathway. These results warrant that seed priming can reduce the adverse effects of salt stress on kenaf. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought stress significantly impairs rice germination, seedling growth, and productivity, particularly in Northeast India, where climatic changes have led to reduced rainfall. This study explores the synergistic effects of two phenolic acids, Salicylic Acid (SA) and Gallic Acid (GA), in alleviating drought stress in Kola Joha rice (Oryza sativa L.), a cultivar with a Geographical Indication tag from Assam. The experiment, conducted under controlled laboratory conditions, applied a 15% PEG solution to induce drought stress, with different treatments including exogenous application of SA and GA. The results demonstrated that both SA and GA improved germination parameters, seedling growth and seed vigor index under drought conditions. The combined treatment of SA and GA showed the best performance, enhancing root and shoot length, water content, and biomass, while mitigating the negative effects of drought stress. The study suggests that the use of these natural growth regulators can offer an effective strategy for improving rice productivity in water-scarce environments and highlights their potential for sustainable agricultural practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maize is a valuable raw material for feed and food production. Healthy seed germination is important for improving the yield and quality of maize. Seed aging occurs relatively fast in crops and it is a process that delays germination as well as reduces its rate and even causes total loss of seed viability. However, the physiological and transcriptional mechanisms that regulate maize seeds, especially aging seed germination remain unclear. Coronatine (COR) which is a phytotoxin produced by Pseudomonas syringae and a new type of plant growth regulator can effectively regulate plant growth and development, and regulate seed germination. In this study, the physiological and transcriptomic mechanisms of COR-induced maize seed germination under different aging degrees were analyzed. The results showed that 0.001–0.01 μmol/L COR could promote the germination of aging maize seed and the growth of primary roots and shoots. COR treatment increased the content of gibberellins (GA3) and decreased the content of abscisic acid (ABA) in B73 seeds before germination. The result of RNA-seq analysis showed 497 differentially expressed genes in COR treatment compared with the control. Three genes associated with GA biosynthesis (ZmCPPS2, ZmD3, and ZmGA2ox2), and two genes associated with GA signaling transduction (ZmGID1 and ZmBHLH158) were up-regulated. Three genes negatively regulating GA signaling transduction (ZmGRAS48, ZmGRAS54, and Zm00001d033369) and two genes involved in ABA biosynthesis (ZmVP14 and ZmPCO14472) were down-regulated. The physiological test results also showed that the effects of GA and ABA on seed germination were similar to those of high and low-concentration COR, respectively, which indicated that the effect of COR on seed germination may be carried out through GA and ABA pathways. In addition, GO and KEGG analysis suggested that COR is also highly involved in antioxidant enzyme systems and secondary metabolite synthesis to regulate maize seed germination processes. These findings provide a valuable reference for further research on the mechanisms of maize seed germination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed germination is a pivotal stage in the plant life cycle, orchestrated by a myriad of internal and external factors, notably plant hormones. The underlying molecular mechanisms governing rice seed germination remain largely unelucidated. Herein, we uncover OsMBF1a as a crucial regulatory factor that employs a dual strategy to promote seed germination: positively activating genes involved in gibberellin (GA) biosynthesis pathways, while negatively regulating key genes responsible for abscisic acid (ABA) synthesis. Furthermore, OsMBF1a modulates the endogenous levels of ABA and GA in rice seeds, reinforcing its central role in the germination process. The expression of ZmMBF1a and ZmMBF1b, the homologous genes in maize, in rice seeds similarly affects germination, indicating the conserved functionality of MBF1 family genes in regulating seed germination. This study provides novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying rice seed germination and underscores the significance of MBF1 family genes in plant growth and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphene oxide (GO), beyond its specialized industrial applications, is rapidly gaining prominence as a nanomaterial for modern agriculture. However, its specific effects on seed priming for salinity tolerance and yield formation in crops remain elusive. Under both pot-grown and field-grown conditions, this study combined physiological indices with transcriptomics and metabolomics to investigate how GO affects seed germination, seedling salinity tolerance, and peanut pod yield. Peanut seeds were firstly treated with 400 mg L⁻¹ GO (termed GO priming). At seed germination stage, GO-primed seeds exhibited higher germination rate and percentage of seeds with radicals breaking through the testa. Meanwhile, omics analyses revealed significant enrichment in pathways associated with carbon and nitrogen metabolisms in GO-primed seeds. At seedling stage, GO priming contributed to strengthening plant growth, enhancing photosynthesis, maintaining the integrity of plasma membrane, and promoting the nutrient accumulation in peanut seedlings under 200 mM NaCl stress. Moreover, GO priming increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes, along with reduced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in response to salinity stress. Furthermore, the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) of peanut seedlings under GO priming were mainly related to photosynthesis, phytohormones, antioxidant system, and carbon and nitrogen metabolisms in response to soil salinity. At maturity, GO priming showed an average increase in peanut pod yield by 12.91% compared with non-primed control. Collectively, our findings demonstrated that GO plays distinguish roles in enhancing seed germination, mitigating salinity stress, and boosting pod yield in peanut plants via modulating multiple physiological processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assemblies of magnesium and bismuth oxides (Mg−Bi−O) were synthesized with (MBO : Fe) and without iron (MBO) by using a hydrothermal method. Such assemblies were utilized to promote the germination and growth of pinto bean seedlings. The MBO : Fe assemblies had rambutan‐like morphology, which is composed by nanohairs/flagella. The MBO : Fe assemblies were loaded with fomesafen herbicide and the release kinetics of such herbicide was explained by using the Korsmeyer‐Peppas model and the non‐Fickian transport mechanism. The cumulative fomesafen release at pH 7.5 reached percentages of 4.38 %, 71.02 %, 75.04 %, and 100 % for the MBO, MBO‐1 % Fe, MBO‐3 % Fe, and MBO‐5 % Fe, respectively. Also, the MBO and MBO : Fe assemblies were utilized to promote the growth of pinto bean plants. The germination percentages for the MBO, MBO‐1 % Fe, MBO‐3 % Fe, and MBO‐5 % Fe samples were 83.33, 100, 91.67 and 100 %, respectively. Such percentages are higher than that for the control plants grown without MBO : Fe (66.67 %). The longest root/shoot lengths (20.62/48 cm) were obtained for the plant grown with the MBO‐3 % Fe assembly. In contrast, lower root/shoot lengths (14.7/30.66 cm) were obtained for the control plants. Thus, MBO : Fe assemblies loaded with fomesafen improved the physical characteristics of the bean plants, which is of interest for the sustainable agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-temperature plasma (LTP) is currently one of the non-invasive and environmentally friendly methods of seed treatment and is massively tested on various types of crops. For the needs of gene banks, the use of LTP technology represents the treatment of seeds before sowing to improve the germination and emergence of long-term stored seed samples. Seeds of four genotypes of wheat, oats, flax, and rapeseed stored in the gene bank for 1, 10, and 20 years were plasma treated for 20, 25, and 30 min. Standard germination parameters (SG3, SG7, GR, MGT, and GI), as well as predictive models, were used to evaluate the effect of plasma treatment on seeds, and the effect on seed metabolism was assessed by superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. The plasma treatment had different effects on germination and on the enzymatic activity of the tested species, and the result was influenced by both the duration of the treatment and the crop species/genotype. The plasma treatment has a positive effect on germination parameters in flax and rapeseed; in some variants, as in wheat, oats generally reacted negatively. SOD activity was variable in wheat, while higher activity with increasing treatment time was found in other crops. The results of this first study focused on long-term stored seeds and showed the potential of plasma treatment of seeds of plant genetic resources, the possibility of stimulating the germination of stored PGRs, and the need to optimize treatment conditions for individual genotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We conducted a study to determine the most effective method of preserving lentil seeds for future sowing. The experiment involved six different types of storage containers: cotton cloth bags, tin containers, earthen pots, plastic containers, polythene bags, and gunny bags. We also used four plant extracts: Piper betel (Betel leaf), Azadirachta indica (Neem), Allium indica (Garlic), and Swietenia mahagoni (Mahagani). We measured the vigor index and germination percentage at 2, 4, and 6 months after storage, and then documented the fungal connection. In a separate experiment, we conducted a pre-sowing seed treatment using botanicals and biological agents such as garlic (5% w/v aqueous solution), datura (5% w/v aqueous solution), mehogoni leaf extract (5% w/v aqueous solution), mehogoni seed extract (5% w/v aqueous solution), and fern leaf extract (5% w/v aqueous solution). We treated the seeds with various substances to suppress seed-borne fungi, including ash coating (10 g kg-1 seed), fresh cow dung coating, a solution of cow urine (5% v/v water), Provax-200 (2 g kg-1 seed), and an untreated control group. In terms of germination, vigor index, and seed infection, the lentil seeds stored in a polythene bag with neem leaf extract significantly outperformed the other treatments. We found that the durability of lentil seeds significantly decreased as the storage time increased. The seed treatment fungicide Provax-200 had a significant impact on lowering the presence of fungus (by 87.41%) and boosting the germination percentage (by 39.49%) of lentil seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The population and food demand are growing at the same rate. Properly applying fertilizers is important to this endeavor, as it is critical in increasing growth, yields, and quality. The filter paper seed germination bioassay will serve as a better alternative to study the direct impact of fertilizers on seed germination because, in soil or culture medium-based studies, various other factors also influence germination and growth. The present study investigated the effect of seven different fertilizers: mineral (Ure a, DAP, and combined NPK), organic (Vermicompost + Poultry, Pond slurry, Farmyard manure), and organomineral (Pond slurry + Poultry + Mineral) having four different concentrations (110, 220, 330, 440 mg/L) on seed germination and seedling growth of brinjal and cluster bean while the double distilled water served as blank. Various parameters were recorded, such as the seedling's relative germination ratio, shoot length, root length, fresh weight, and dry weight. Among different fertilizers, orga nic fertilizers give the best-suited results at 440 mg/L, while mineral fertilizers above 110 mg/L inhibited germination and seedling growth. The best-suited fertilizer combination was organomineral, with a concentration of 220 mg/L. Furthermore, regression analysis depicted a stronger correlation between growth parameters and the N, P, and K content of different fertilizers. This study suggests that higher doses of fertilizers sometimes leads to inhibition of growth and yield. Additionally, organominer al fertilizer served as better alternative because they blend both organic and inorganic nutrients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aims to investigate the effectiveness of chicken feather hydrolysate for promoting the growth of Spinacia oleracea L., a commonly consumed leafy green vegetable. An earlier isolated and identified keratinolytic bacterial species Bacillus tropicus was utilized for the preparation of chicken feather hydrolysate through submerged fermentation. Minimal media which was supplemented with chicken feather was used for the preparation of hydrolysate. The bacterial strain degraded chicken feather within 4 days of incubation after which the feather hydrolysate was collected and tested to check plant growth promoting activity through the seed germination trials and greenhouse study. Upon characterization of feather hydrolysate, it was found that the hydrolysate was a cocktail of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium (NPK) as well as other micro elements needed for plant growth. Four different concentrations of feather hydrolysate were employed for both the seed germination and greenhouse study which ranged from 25% (v/v), 30% (v/v), 35% (v/v) and 40% (v/v) including a control group (CN) which was not supplemented with feather hydrolysate. The hydrolysate supplementation brought about plant growth in all the four test concentrations with 35% (v/v) giving the highest result of 14 cm and 27.6 mg/g for tested parameters like plumule length and total chlorophyll content, respectively. The same concentration supported maximum seed germination and highest radicle extension for the germination studies as well. This study investigates the efficacy of chicken feather hydrolysate in promoting spinach growth, elucidating its potential as a fertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the allelopathic inhibitory effects of harmala (Peganum harmala L.) seeds, seed powder and water extracts on barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) seed germination and seedling growth. The harmala seeds inhibited the barley germination and seedling growth and also significant effected the on root growth than on shoot growth. Ground harmala seed (0.06-0.72 g) had highly significant inhibitory effects on barley germination, except at the lowest concentrations (0.06 and 0.12 g/dish). Water extracts of harmala seeds concentrations (0.6-7.2 %) inhibited the barley germination and seedling growth by 2.4 %. There were clear inhibitory effects on root elongation and plumule growth. Additionally, the harmala extract caused radicle decay in barley seedlings. In the field, 1 g of ground harmala seeds inhibited the germination and growth of barley seeds and monthly irrigation with 5 g/L inhibited the fresh and dry weight of barley plants. The inhibitory effects were also on spikes and roots, number and weight of seeds. The germination and growth of new seeds were also inhibited. Similarly, adding 5 g of ground harmala seeds significantly affected the fresh and dry weight of barley plants, with leaves, stems and roots were more affected than spikes. Overall, this study provides an explanation for the absence of barley growth in harmala-infested soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dietary ecology of a species can provide information on habitat requirements, food resources, and trophic interactions, important to guide conservation efforts of wildlife populations in endangered habitats. In this study, we investigated the dietary ecology of bearded capuchin monkeys (Sapajus libidinosus) in Brasilia National Park, in the endangered Cerrado biome of central Brazil. To obtain diet composition and evaluate the role of these primates as seed dispersers of local tree species, fecal sample collections and feeding observations were performed for a 7‐month period. To determine whether seeds germinated better after passing through a primate gut, we conducted germination trials with (i) pulped seeds from trees, (ii) depulped seeds from trees, (iii) seeds from feces planted with feces, and (iv) seeds from feces planted without feces. During experimental procedures, 7308 seeds from 8 families and 10 species were planted. We found that S. libidinosus spent more time feeding on fruits than on any other food item and the diet consisted of 33 plant species from 21 families. However, 20% of their diet consisted of anthropic food. Most seeds planted with feces germinated faster compared to seeds in other experimental treatments, suggesting that passing through the gut and being deposited with fecal material is advantageous. The bearded capuchins also defecated many medium‐ (5 species) and large‐sized (2 species) seeds that may be inaccessible to smaller arboreal frugivores. The results obtained emphasize the important role of bearded capuchins as seed dispersers for the maintenance and conservation of the endangered Cerrado biome. Highlights: Bearded capuchin monkeys are important dispersers of medium‐ and large‐sized seeds in the Cerrado.Seeds having passed through a primate gut and being deposited in feces germinated faster than other seeds.A reduction in primate populations may negatively affect seed dispersal and recruitment of local plant species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Finding methods, which may alleviate drought stress on the growth and biochemical properties of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.), as one of the important medicinal plants, is of significance. The objective was to alleviate drought stress on seed germination, seedling growth, and biochemical properties of different genotypes of safflower using 24-epibrassinosteroid (EBR). The experiments, conducted in the greenhouse in 2014 and 2015, were factorial on the basis of a complete randomized block design with three replicates. Drought stress (85 (S1), 65 (S2) and 45% (S3) of field capacity), genotype (Goldasht, Faraman and Sina), and the foliar application of 24-epibrassinosteroid (EBR) (0 and 10−7 M) were tested. Seed germination indices, seedling growth and biochemical properties were determined. The results indicated the significant effects of drought stress on the measured parameters including seed germination, which was the most sensitive stage. The use of EBR significantly increased seed germination and seedling growth, nutrient uptake and grain protein and oil contents, at different levels of stress. EBR significantly enhanced grain N (7.3%) and P (0.5%) uptake, as well as protein percentage (38.7%), even at the highest level of stress (S3), to the levels which were comparable with S1 and S2. The use of EBR may improve seed germination and the growth of safflower seedlings under drought stress conditions by affecting the physiological properties, mainly related to the mechanisms of protein production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity drastically hampers the germination and growth of legumes including mungbean which jeopardizes the food and nutritional security of the rising human population. An experiment entailing varying salinity levels (0, 50, and 150 Mm NaCl) was conducted to investigate the response of salinity on germination and seedling growth of four mungbean genotypes (BARI Mung-7, BARI Mung-8, BU Mug-2, and BU Mug-4). The germination indices such as percentage and rate of germination along with the coefficient of velocity (GP) of all mungbean genotypes were significantly reduced by the salt stress, especially of Binamoog-5 at 150 mM NaCl. Contrarily, BARI Mung-8 remained superior by recording better germination indices under all salinity levels. The same cultivar outperformed the rest of the cultivars based on the greatest weights (fresh and dry) and length of roots and shoots, while BU Mug-2 could not perform at par under a saline environment. Thus, it might be inferred that mungbean genotypes differ in their potential for salt endurance due to the germination vigor and seedling growth robustness and screening of salt-tolerant cultivars could mitigate the detrimental effects of saline environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) belongs to the Solanaceae family and is considered an important vegetable worldwide. Its production has been challenged due to soil salinization and water shortages. Local tomato cultivars could be better adapted to salt stress. Based on this hypothesis, the present study was carried out to determine the variation in fourteen different tomato cultivars for salt tolerance. Seed germination, mean germination time, shoot length, and root length were examined under salinity stress (1.5 g L-1 NaCl). Plant growth and seed germination were severely affected by saline conditions. The results of this in vitro experiment showed that the seed germination of Yellow Milk was significantly increased (73.33%) however, Pink Jade and Red Jade cultivars were significantly decreased under the NaCl treatment. Similarly, among the fourteen tomato cultivars, the mean germination time of only Yellow Pearl and Black Current significantly increased. Moreover, the shoot length of eight tomato cultivars decreased compared with the control, while the highest shoot length (12.5 cm) was recorded in the case of Saint cultivar. The root length of Taiwan Red Saint, Purple Beauty, Yellow Milk, Red Pearl, Yellow Pearl, Pink Cooperative 906, Qinzu Shanghai 903, and Scarlet cultivars significantly increased, while the other five cultivars significantly decreased under NaCl treatment compared to control. It is concluded that NaCl stress significantly affects the vegetative growth of tomato cultivars under in vitro culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]