Effect of extraction following different drying times on the viability of Byrsonima verbascifolia seeds

摘要

Removal of the endocarp from seeds of Byrsonima verbascifolia (murici) is important to increase the percentage of germination in vitro. Thus, the aim of the present study was to evaluate effect of extraction following different drying times on the viability of B. verbascifolia seeds. Endocarps were broken after drying for 0, 72, 144 or 216 hours in an oven at 35 degrees C. The tetrazolium test was immediately performed to evaluate seed viability. The tetrazolium test had already been optimised by testing different pre-imbibition times for the seeds and different tetrazolium concentrations (0.025, 0.05, 0.075 and 0.1%). Drying diaspores for 144 hours benefited the extraction process of murici seeds, a higher percentage (30%) of vigorous embryos and a smaller percentage (3%) of non-viable embryos were recorded. The analysis of seed viability was optimal using 0.075 or 0.1% tetrazolium, and no differences were observed between the different pre-imbibition times. Drying of the murici diaspores for up to 216 hours did not cause a significant reduction in the percentage of germination, therefore, the drying process represents a viable alternative to facilitate endocarp breaking and seed withdrawal with less damage to the embryonic tissues.