Effect of sodium nitroprusside (SNP) on the germination ofSenna macranthera seeds (DC. ex Collad.) H. S. Irwin & Baneby under salt stress

Abstract

Nitric oxide (NO) has been used as stimulating of the germination process for many species. However, there are few studies evaluating the effect of nitric oxide donor in the regulation of seed germination under salt stress, especially for native forest species. The objective was to evaluate the effects of SNP, an NO donor substance, on germination of Senna macranthera seeds under salt stress. The seeds were germinated at different osmotic potentials induced by NaCl solution (0.0, -0.1, -0.2, -0.3, -0.4 and -0.5 MPa). To evaluate the effect of the SNP, potentials -0.3 and -0,4 MPa were selected, applying SNP at different concentrations: 100, 200, 300 and 400 µM. Germination tests were conducted at 25 °C, with photoperiod of 8 hours. Percentage of radicle protrusion, radicle protrusion speed index, percentage of normal seedlings, shoots and roots length and dry matter were evaluated. Salt stress with NaCl is harmful to germination of S. macranthera seeds. SNP has the potential to recover germination under salt stress, especially in the concentration of 100 µM.