The structure of the seed coat of valuable forage plant Galega orientalis Lam

Abstract

The aim of the research was to describe the structure and chemical composition of the hard seed coat of Galega orientalis Lam., as well as some changes in its structure during the seed imbibition. A hard, waterproof seed coat is known to inhibit the germination of seed. The structure of the seed coat was studied on seeds of G. orientalis. It is a valuable forage plant, but it is difficult to cultivate it due to long and unstable germination. The main layers that differ in their structure and functions were identified in the coat of seeds of G. orientalis. The cells of the epidermis of the coat have a thin wall with partial lignification. Hypodermis consists of cells elongated parallel to the surface, the cell wall of which contains a layer of hydrophobic substance suberin. Parenchyma consists of loosely packed parenchymal cells. The studies demonstrated the traits of individual layers of the seed coat of G. orientalis, as well as to trace the changes in the structure of the seed coat during the imbibition of seeds.