Assessing the vigor of cowpea seeds using the Vigor-S software

Abstract

Abstract: The use of computational resources to assess the physiological potential of seeds has attracted the attention of researchers and professionals in the seed sector. The aim of this study was to evaluate the vigor of cowpea seeds using the Vigor-S software (Automated Seed Vigor Analysis System), in comparison to the information provided by traditional vigor tests that are recommended for the species. Seven seed lots of the cultivar BRS Guariba were used. They underwent germination and seed vigor assessment by testing first germination count, accelerated aging, electrical conductivity, seedling emergence, speed of seedling emergence and use of Vigor-S, an automated image system for seedling assessment, in two evaluation periods. The data underwent analysis of variance, in a completely randomized design and their means were compared by the Scott-Knott test (p ≤ 0.05). An analysis was made of the correlation between the vigor tests traditionally used and the variables provided by Vigor-S. Using the Vigor-S software for automated image analysis of cowpea seedlings three days after sowing is an efficient alternative to detect differences in vigor between seed lots, similarly to traditional seed vigor evaluations.