Cotton Genotype Differences in Seed Coat Fragments Related to Seed Fragility and Fiber-Seed Attachment Force

HighlightsRelationships between seed coat fragments and other seed and fiber properties were examined among cotton genotypes.Genotypes in the study had a broad range of properties that were significantly different among genotypes.Seed coat fragment levels were significantly correlated with cottonseed fragility, fiber-seed attachment force, and ginning energy.Longer, stronger cottons tended to have higher seed coat fragment levels.Abstract. Seed coat fragments (SCF) are difficult to remove from ginned lint. Cotton genotypes vary in SCF levels, but details are lacking regarding the cause of SCF. This study examined ten genotypes with highly variable levels of SCF to find relationships between SCF and cottonseed rupture force, fiber-seed attachment force, and net gin stand energy. Results showed that the attachment force of the fiber to the seed increased significantly with SCF levels, and net gin stand energy consumption increased with SCF levels, suggesting fibers more strongly attached to seed were prone to SCF formation. Cottonseed rupture force was measured, but only one genotype with very low seed rupture force had increased SCF; otherwise, SCF increased with cottonseed rupture force. Unexpectedly, fiber length, strength, and micronaire were significantly correlated with SCF levels, indicating that the longer, stronger, cottons with lower micronaire in the premium range tended to have higher SCF levels. These results show that multiple, otherwise desirable factors may contribute to cotton containing high SCF levels. Keywords: Seed coat fragments, Cottonseed fragility, Cotton attachment force, Gin stand energy, Fiber quality.