RA5 PAPER: Seed storage physiology

Seed Storage Physiology of Lophomyrtus and Neomyrtus, Two Threatened Myrtaceae Genera Endemic to New Zealand

February 2023

van der Walt K, Nadarajan J. 2023. Seed Storage Physiology of Lophomyrtus and Neomyrtus, Two Threatened Myrtaceae Genera Endemic to New Zealand. Plants 12(5): 1067.

ABSTRACT

There is no published information on the seed germination or seed storage physiology of Lophomyrtus bullata, Lophomyrtus obcordata, and Neomyrtus pedunculata. This lack of information is hampering conservation efforts of these critically endangered species. This study investigated the seed morphology, seed germination requirements, and long-term seed storage methods for all three species. The impact of desiccation, desiccation and freezing, as well as desiccation plus storage at 5 ◦C, −18 ◦C, and −196 ◦C on seed viability (germination) and seedling vigour was assessed.

KEYWORDS

cryopreservation; desiccation; differential scanning calorimetry (DSC); lipid; myrtle rust; seed banking; seed physiology; seed storage behaviour; threatened