Variations in Percent Protein of Individual Seeds from Five Peanut Plants

Abstract

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to examine the variation in percent protein of individual seeds from five peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) plants of ‘NC2,’ (a Virginia‐type commercial peanut variety) using macro‐Kjeldahl analysis. The differences in percent protein between mature and immature seeds and between basal and apical seeds were also examined. Protein levels varied significantly among individual seeds from each of the five peanut plants. No relationship was obtained between the percent protein of the individual seeds and either the fruit placement or the branching pattern. Percent protein was higher in immature than in mature seeds. Apical seeds also had a higher pereent protein than the basal ones. Seeds with higher dry weight had significantly lower percent protein. Because of these observed variations in percent protein, the selection of individual seeds for genetic studies of protein must be made with great care.