Effects of different light-temperature treatments over germination responses and seedling development of some Agave species

摘要

A study was made to determine the effect of light and temperature on seed germination of Agave. Three temperature ranges (19-23 deg C 19-32 deg C and 28-32 deg C) and three light treatments (white light, red light and darkness) were used to determinepossible relations. The further development of seedling was followed over a period of three months. At 19-23 deg C there was no significant difference in speed of germination and percentage among treatments, however, plant development tended to decreasein comparison to others. Furthermore, plantlels germinated at km temperature ranges had shown greater survival percentage over three months without showing patterns under light treatments. On the other hand, at 28-32 deg C there was a higher speed and germination percentage under dark treatments Despite plantlets obtained from these treatments appeared to develop faster, but they had a diminished survival rate for most species. As for seeds germinated at 19-32 deg C presented a lower speed and germination percentage than those from a lower range. Therefore, the results indicate that the seeds of agave genera tend to germinate either under buried or under micro sites where temperature changes are kept at an optimal range. However, the latter condition would be favoured as it assures a fast seedling development to assure successful establishment.