Germination, protein contents and soluble carbohydrates during storage of sugar apple seeds (Annona squamosa L.)

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in the germination potential, protein contents and soluble carbohydrates in sugar apple ( Annona squamosa L.) seeds from Castilla-Tolima and Apulo-Cundinamarca, Colombia during storage for 30, 60 and 120 days in a cool room, refrigeration, and ambient conditions. In each period, the seed moisture contents, germination percentage (GP), mean germination time (MGT), mean germination rate (MGR), soluble protein content, and contents of sucrose, glucose and fructose were evaluated. The highest GP (> 80%) and MGR (0.15 germinated seeds / day) and the lowest MGT (<7 days) were reached after 60 and 120 days of storage under ambient conditions. In the three storage conditions, the protein contents declined at 60 days and 120 days in seeds from Castilla and Apulo, respectively. Under the ambient conditions (AC), there was an increase of 72.3% in the sucrose content, 61% increase in the fructose content and 70% decrease in the glucose content. The results show that this environment temperature for 60 and 120 days was best suited for maintaining short term germination. The high GP and MGT values and low MGR value indicated a possible dormancy release that occurred naturally.