Abstract
Abstract: Jatropha seeds are classified as orthodox. However, since it is an oil seed species, adequate storage conditions are required to ensure their longevity. The objective of this work was to evaluate the physiological quality of jatropha seeds stored in different environments and packaging, for periods of 3, 9 and 15 months. Three types of seed packaging bags (high density plastic bag, aluminized envelope and multiwall paper bag) were used, and the storage environments were cold and dry chamber (20 °C and 15% RH, constant), refrigerator (7 ± 3 °C, 48 ± 8% RH) and laboratory conditions (25 ± 3 °C, 51 ± 7% RH). The initial moisture content and seed germination were 7.1% and 89%, respectively. During storage, the physiological quality (germination and vigor) and moisture content of the seeds were evaluated. Seed water content ranged from 3.3 to 7.7%, depending on the permeability of the packaging and the storage environment. The highest longevity (15 months) without loss of viability was observed for jatropha seeds with initial moisture of 7.1%, packed in semipermeable plastic. Seed vigor was maintained, regardless of the environment and the type of packaging used, for up to nine months of storage.
Highlights
With the advent of renewable fuels, many oleaginous plants have been investigated with the objective of providing raw material for the production of biodiesel, and jatropha (Jatropha curcas L.) is one of them
Lower water contents were observed in seeds packed in paper bags and kept in cold and dry chamber
In the laboratory and refrigerator environments, the relative air humidity varied and this influenced the water content of the seeds, which depended on the packaging used
Summary
With the advent of renewable fuels, many oleaginous plants have been investigated with the objective of providing raw material for the production of biodiesel, and jatropha (Jatropha curcas L.) is one of them. Despite the interest in alternative sources for the production of fuels, jatropha cultivation still depends on researches to be feasible, and to guaranteethe supply of quality seeds capable of sustaining the production system. The propagation of this crop is realized mainly by seeds collected from parent plants selected by the producers. The seed is a source both of raw material, i.e., of oil for the production of biodiesel, and of the main propagating material. To meet the demand for plant propagation material to establish the crops, besides standardized methods for evaluating seed quality, good storage conditions should be considered for commercialization purposes. Little attention has been given to the development of seed storage methods, which is one of the major problems in tropical agriculture
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
