Germination and desiccation studies on wild nutmeg seed (Virola surinamensis).
1995
Cunha R. | Eira M.T.S. | Rita I.
Virola surinamensis (Rol.) Warb. is a tropical species found in the flood plains of white water rivers of the Amazonian forest. Intensive timber extraction has led to severe depletion of this species. Besides anthropic pressure, it has been observed in nature that its seeds have a short life and the germination process is asynchronous and very slow. The objectives of this work were to study physiological aspects of Virola surinamensis seed for germplasm conservation purposes, evaluating: the influence of the seed coat on water uptake and germination; the seed response to desiccation and cold storage. Water absorption and germination were evaluated in seeds with and without testa. Seed resistance to desiccation and cold storage were investigated after drying in a 15 % R.H. and 24 deg C chamber for 0, 8, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours, through moisture content and germination tests. After the drying treatment part of the samples were submitted to +5 deg C and -20 deg C storage for 72 hours. The results showed that the seed coat does not hinder water sorption, but restrains it, reducing the germination percentage. Some ecophysiological aspects are discussed. The sensitivity of the seeds to desiccation and cold storage provided evidence of a recalcitrant behaviour, so the seed of Virola surinamensis cannot be stored under conventional conditions.
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