Accelerated aging of Quercusnigra seed: biochemical changes and applicability as a vigor test

Abstract

A decline in germination capacity (vigor) of Quercusnigra L. (water oak) seed lots within 108 h was observed when seeds were aged at 41 °C and 100% relative humidity. Aging for less than 108 h increased germination rate. Seed moisture and amino nitrogen contents increased with period of aging, whereas starch content gradually declined. There was no definitive pattern of change in the contents of reducing and nonreducing sugars. These changes reflected an overall elevated metabolism that resulted in an increased rate of utilization of seed energy reserve and a consequent decline in seed vigor.