100-seed test for desiccation tolerance and germination: a case study on eight tropical palm species

A test was devised for seed desiccation tolerance, the crucial first step in the ex situ preservation of germplasm and its sustainable use. Its unique attribute is the maximum characterisation of seed lots using the minimum number of seeds. Data recorded includes seed dimensions, fresh and dry weight, moisture content, relative humidity. germination total and rate in one environment before and after desiccation with silica gel. Seeds of eight tropical palms from the genera Phoenix and Syagrus were studied. Six were found to be desiccation tolerant, a trait that matched closely the natural habitat of the species; two species, Phoenix roebelenii and Syagrus schizophylla, are provisionally classified as having desiccation sensitive, Type II or III seeds. In general, germination was observed to be rapid, being complete in one to two months. Two species exhibited an increase in germination during short-term (weeks) moist storage, probably indicative of a progression in embryo development. The results show that the 100-seed test can be used as an efficient and effective first screen for potential storage of seeds from diverse species and can support the rapid production of seed biology checklists for species conservation and sustainable use.