Influence of selected environmental stimuli and storage methods on the germination of wigeongrass (Ruppia maritima L.) seeds from Cedar Bayou, Galveston Bay area, Texas (Texas).

摘要

Ruppia maritima seeds collected from Cedar Bayou in the Galveston Bay area of Texas were studied to determine the effects of salinity, light intensity, dissolved oxygen, storage methods and storage time on germination rate. Additionally, the germination rate was compared between seeds collected from the sediment and seeds collected from the plants. Seeds in salinities of 0.35 ppt and 3.5 ppt experienced significantly greater germination rates than seeds in the higher salinities. There was no significant difference in germination rates among light treatments. Seeds deprived of oxygen by nitrogen gas sparging had a mean lower germination rate than either seeds under stagnant or aerated conditions. Seeds stored dry experienced more germination than seeds stored in water. If collected off of the plants, seeds should be stored for more than 30 days before being planted.