Use the X-ray in the evaluation of the quality of seeds of Platypodium elegans Vog.

Abstract

In native forest species, the occurrence of empty structures and with damaged seeds is common. The study had as objectives to define a methodology and to verify the efficiency of use of the X-ray test in evaluation of the physiological quality of jacaranda seeds (Platypodium elegans Vog.). The seeds were treated to different times and intensities of exposition to the radiation. The radiation of 30 kvp at 60  seconds, was the one that allowed the best visualization of the internal structures and was used to divide the seeds in four categories: full, empty, attacked for insects and badly-formed. Later, the radiographed seeds were submitted to germination test in sand at 25 °C, under constant light. The X-ray test was efficient in the evaluation of internal morphology of Platypodium elegans seeds and the damages detected in the test affected the germination, having reduced the quality of lots.