Rodrigues et al. 2014 (Article) Bromeliaceae

Physiological characteristics underpinning successful cryopreservation of endemic and endangered species of Bromeliaceae from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest

Author(s):—A.R.P. Rodrigues, R.C. Forzza & A.C.S. Andrade

Publication:—Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society 176(4): 567-578. (2014) — DOI

Abstract:—The germination requirements and the basis of the optimal water content before and after cryopreservation were studied for ten endangered Brazilian species of Bromeliaceae. Constant and alternating temperature regimes were used to determine the best conditions for seed germination. The relationship between seed water content and relative humidity was evaluated using water sorption isotherms at 15?°C. Seeds were cryostored at four water contents (3, 5, 7 and 9%) and three storage periods (0, 180 and 365 days), and loss in viability and vigour were estimated. Fresh seeds of all species showed maximum germination in

Keywords:—germination temperature, orthodox seeds, seed drying, seed storage behaviour, sorption isotherms, threatened species