Abstract
The refinement of vigor tests and the possibility of utilizing computer resources for the effective evaluation of the seed physiological potential have attracted considerable interest from research and seed technologists. The aim of this study was to evaluate the physiological potential of maize seeds using the newly-created Automated Analysis of Seed Vigor System (Vigor-S) compared with other recommended seed vigor tests; two maize hybrids were used, each represented by seven seed lots. Germination and vigor (cold test, saturated salt accelerated aging, and field seedling emergence) evaluations were conducted. For the evaluation of seed vigor with the use of seedling image analysis resources, two systems were compared: the Seed Vigor Imaging System (SVIS®), developed by Ohio State University, USA and the Vigor-S, resulting from collaboration between USP/ESALQ and EMBRAPA (Embrapa Instrumentation). Using these two systems, three day old seedlings were scanned and the images were analyzed. Similar results for the vigor index, uniformity of development, and seedling length were obtained. The computerized image analysis of seedlings using Vigor-S has advantages with respect to accuracy, speed, and the possibility of automatic application to a worksheet. It is a consistent alternative for the evaluation of maize seed vigor, and produces information compatible with that obtained by the accelerated aging test and SVIS®.
Highlights
The use of seeds with high physiological potential is indispensable for success in agricultural production, and makes a significant contribution to rapid stand establishment and the initial development of vigorous seedlings in the field (Marcos-Filho, 2016)
The aim of this study was to evaluate the physiological potential of maize seeds using the newly-created Automated Analysis of Seed Vigor System (Vigor-S) compared with other recommended seed vigor tests; two maize hybrids were used, each represented by seven seed lots
One of the main difficulties found in the use of SVIS® has been the need to make adjustments in the marking of seedlings or their parts after processing the seedling images, which requires a great deal of attention from analysts so that the parts of the seedlings are precisely identified by the system and the parameters generated by the system are obtained on a consistent basis
Summary
The use of seeds with high physiological potential is indispensable for success in agricultural production, and makes a significant contribution to rapid stand establishment and the initial development of vigorous seedlings in the field (Marcos-Filho, 2016). Computerized image analysis of seedlings is one of these alternatives, favoring standardization, precision, objectivity, and reduction in the time period necessary for performing tests (Marcos-Filho, 2010). Sako et al (2001) developed a very effective automated system for evaluating lettuce seed vigor, known as the Seed Vigor Imaging System (SVIS®). One of the main difficulties found in the use of SVIS® has been the need to make adjustments in the marking of seedlings or their parts after processing the seedling images, which requires a great deal of attention from analysts so that the parts of the seedlings are precisely identified by the system and the parameters generated by the system are obtained on a consistent basis
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
