Effect of salinity on the germination of Sarcocornia neei (Chenopodiaceae) from two contrasting habitats

摘要

We studied the effect of salinity on Sarcocornia neei seed germination from two contrasting habitats under controlled conditions in a laboratory experiment. Test solutions were made with distilled water adding NaCl to obtain the equivalent to 0, 25, 50, 75, 100 and 125% of sea water salinity. Germination was significantly different among habitats. Seed germination reached a maximum of 74% in distilled water treatment. Germination percentage and germination rate decreased with an increase in salinity. Recovery percentage increased with salinity up to 73% on the most saline treatment. S. neei showed a moderate tolerance to salinity at germination stage. Differences in recovery among seeds from contrasting habitats indicate that both salinity and seed quality affect seed germination of the species.