Seed vitality and fungal contamination in Abies nebrodensis

Seeds of Abies nebrodensis were subjected to laboratory tests aimed to detect fungal contaminants and to obtain xenobiotic-free seedlings, by the use of different surface sterilising agents. Moreover, hot water at 60 degrees C was used to suppress any fungal microorganisms colonizing the inner tissues. Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus flavus and Stemphylium vesicarium were the most frequent fungal contaminants. Non-contaminated seeds showed germination values ranging from 0 to 36.4% depending on the applied sterilization protocol. Further analyses will be carried out to establish the influence of these fungi on the seed germination process and their relationship with seedlings of A. nebrodensis.

Automated summary

This study aimed to detect and eliminate fungal contaminants in Abies nebrodensis seeds using different surface sterilizing agents and hot water treatment. Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus flavus, and Stemphylium vesicarium were identified as the most frequent fungal contaminants. The germination rate of non-contaminated seeds ranged from 0% to 36.4% depending on the sterilization protocol. Further analyses are needed to investigate the influence of these fungi on the seed germination process and their relationship with A. nebrodensis seedlings.