Physiological quality, lignin and the ultrastructural characterization of soybean seeds

Abstract

In soybeans, the integument or seed coat is an important modulator between the external and internal environment. It plays a fundamental role in seed vitality, and its lignin content may influence the seed quality. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the quality of soybean seeds from a partial diallel and their reciprocals and its relationship with lignin content, seed coat thickness, and deposition location. The seeds were also evaluated for physiological quality through germination and accelerated aging tests. The lignin content was quantified by absorbance, and the integument thickness was analyzed and measured using scanning electron microscopy. The most contrasting cultivars for lignin content were analyzed using fluorescence microscopy and histochemical techniques. Cultivars and their reciprocals differed in seed physiological quality. We found differences in the genotypes for integument thickness. Using histochemical techniques, autofluorescence was observed in the same regions identified as lignified. Positive staining for lignin was observed in the hilum region. Among the genotypes, we found variations in the physiological quality of seeds (germination and accelerated aging test), lignin content, and integument thickness.