Abstract
The tetrazolium test is a quick and effective method for evaluating viability in seeds. The aim of this study was to determine a methodology for using the tetrazolium test, and its efficiency in verifying viability in seeds of the gherkin (Cucumis anguria L.). Consequently, five batches of gherkin seed were initially evaluated by the tests for germination, first count and speed of germination. The batches were then subjected to treatments in order to adjust the methodology for the tetrazolium test, evaluating three concentrations of tetrazolium solution (0.100, 0.075 and 0.050%), kept in the dark for two, four and six hours, under temperatures of 35 °C and 40 °C, with four replications of 25 seeds per treatment. At the end of the staining period, the seeds were washed in running water, split lengthways between the cotyledons, and classified as viable and non-viable. Evaluation of viability in seeds of the gherkin by tetrazolium test is efficient when carried out at a concentration of 0.050%, either for six hours at 35 °C or four hours at 40 °C.
Highlights
Gherkin (Cucumis anguria L.) belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, which produces fleshy fruits used in cookery, especially in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil
The germination test is the most used to verify the viability of seeds and its result represents the maximum potential of the seed lot obtained under favorable environmental conditions (BRASIL, 2009)
This study aimed to determine the methodology of execution of the tetrazolium test and its efficiency to evaluate the viability of gherkin seeds
Summary
Gherkin (Cucumis anguria L.) belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, which produces fleshy fruits used in cookery, especially in the North and Northeast regions of Brazil. The physiological quality of the seed determines its viability and vigor, which are evaluated through laboratory analyses that express this potential in a precise, rapid and efficient way. For this purpose, the germination test is the most used to verify the viability of seeds and its result represents the maximum potential of the seed lot obtained under favorable environmental conditions (BRASIL, 2009). The germination test is widely used, it has limitations, especially regarding its duration, requiring the use of other faster tests, such as the tetrazolium test This test has attracted the attention of researchers, because it allows to efficiently estimate viability and vigor of the seeds, besides favoring the identification of factors that influence their quality (GUEDES et al, 2010; MARCOSFILHO, 2015)
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