Influence of the conservation condition on the germination of mandacaru seeds from the Caatinga and Atlantic Forest areas

Abstract

Due to the wide distribution and the constant threat and degradation to which the cactacies of the Caatinga and Atlantic Forest biomes are subjected, strategies for the conservation of native species belonging to this group of plants become urgent and necessary. Therefore, the study aimed to evaluate the physiological quality of mandacaru seeds under different conservation conditions during storage. The seeds were stored for a period of twelve months, comprising the 0 (control), 2, 4, 6, 8, and 12 months in two conservation conditions (10 ± 1 and 24 ± 2 °C), two packages (paper and glass), and two collection areas (Caatinga and Atlantic Forest). The number of germinated seeds was counted daily for 21 days after root protrusion. The evaluated variables were: water content (%), germination (%) and germination speed index (GSI). There germination and vigor of mandacaru seeds stored at room temperature decreased over time. The paper packaging was more efficient than the glass container when the seeds were kept at room temperature. The mandacaru seeds, when kept in the refrigerator, had their physiological quality preserved, and this condition is indicated as ideal for the conservation seeds, regardless of the tested packaging.