Protocol for Large-Scale Collection, Processing, and Storage of Seeds of Two Mesohaline Submerged Aquatic Plant Species

摘要

A previous pilot study (Ailstock and Shafer 2004) established the seed reproductive potential of two species of submerged aquatic angiosperms, Ruppia maritima (widgeon grass) and Potamogeton perfoliatus (redhead grass), that predominate in the mesohaline reaches of the mid-Chesapeake Bay. This paper outlines a system for the collection, processing, storage, and germination of seeds in quantities sufficient to restore underwater grass habitats on a scale of hectares. Although this system was developed for P. perfoliatus and R. maritima, the same procedures could also be used to develop protocols for seeds of other aquatic plant species for use in large-scale restoration projects.