| Title | Development of desiccation tolerance and germination physiology of Crotalaria pallida Ait. seeds |
| Author | Yang, QH |
| Publication | SEED SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY |
| Year | 2004 |
| Volume | 32 |
| Issue | 1 |
| Corresponding Author | Yin, SH |
| Abstract | This paper describes research results on some morphological properties, moisture content, germinability, leakage rate of electrolyte and desiccation tolerance of Crotalaria pallida Ait. seeds at various developmental stages. It showed that throughout the course of development C. pallida seeds experienced significant changes in morphological characteristics, leachate conductivity, germinability and desiccation-tolerance. Between 20 to 65 days after flowering (DAF), both fresh and dry weight of seeds increased gradually. The natural desiccation period occurred from 65 to 75 DAF. Moisture content of seeds decreased gradually during this period with significant maturation desiccation at the late stages. Seed germinability gradually reached up to a maximum from 25 to 70 DAF, but decreased somewhat thereafter. The leachate conductivity of seeds gradually decreased to a minimum from 25 to 70 DAF but then increased at 75 DAF; leachate conductivity of immature seeds increased quickly with prolong of soaking time. During 30 to 60 DAF, seed desiccation tolerance increased and reached a maximum at 65-70 DAF, but decreased at 75 DAF. The lowest seed MC that the mature seeds could tolerate was about 10%. The responses to illumination and temperature on seed germination were independent interactive and dependent on developmental stages. |
