Evaluation of squash seed physiological quality using computerized image analysis

W.M. Nascimento, P.P. Silva, J. Marcos-Filho, F.G. Gomes-Junior
For some crops, such as vegetables, there are few standardized tests for seed vigor determination and this has a fundamental importance for Brazilian seed industry. The objective of this study was to verify the effectiveness of a computerized seedling image analysis of 'Brasileirinha' squash (Cucurbita moschata) seedling compared to the other recommended seed vigor tests. Six seed lots were produced at Embrapa Vegetables, Brasília, DF, Brazil, from 2006 to 2012. Seed physiological quality was evaluated using the Seed Vigor Imaging System (SVIS®), germination, seedling emergence, cold test and saturated salt accelerated aging tests. Seed mass was also determined. The SVIS® provided data on the vigor, uniformity of development and growth indexes of seedlings at three days after sowing under optimum conditions. Seed lots with high vigor through the different tests had better evaluation on SVIS®, indicating the sensitivity of this procedure to evaluate seed vigor. This system may be an interesting alternative to obtain reliable information about the physiological potential of squash seeds.
Nascimento, W.M., Silva, P.P., Marcos-Filho, J. and Gomes-Junior, F.G. (2017). Evaluation of squash seed physiological quality using computerized image analysis. Acta Hortic. 1151, 183-188
DOI: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2017.1151.29
https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2017.1151.29
Cucurbita moschata, seedling analysis, physiological potential
English

Acta Horticulturae