The refinement of vigor tests and the possibility of utilizing computer resources for the effective evaluation of the seed physiological potential have attracted considerable interest from research and seed technologists. The aim of this study was to evaluate the physiological potential of maize seeds using the newly-created Automated Analysis of Seed Vigor System (Vigor-S) compared with other recommended seed vigor tests; two maize hybrids were used, each represented by seven seed lots. Germination and vigor (cold test, saturated salt accelerated aging, and field seedling emergence) evaluations were conducted. For the evaluation of seed vigor with the use of seedling image analysis resources, two systems were compared: the Seed Vigor Imaging System (SVIS ® ), developed by Ohio State University, USA and the Vigor-S, resulting from collaboration between USP/ESALQ and EMBRAPA (Embrapa Instrumentation). Using these two systems, three day old seedlings were scanned and the images were analyzed.Similar results for the vigor index, uniformity of development, and seedling length were obtained.The computerized image analysis of seedlings using Vigor-S has advantages with respect to accuracy, speed, and the possibility of automatic application to a worksheet. It is a consistent alternative for the evaluation of maize seed vigor, and produces information compatible with that obtained by the accelerated aging test and SVIS ® .

The use of fast and precise procedures for seed analysis is an important factor for making decisions at different stages of seed production. The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of internal damage and associate morphological traits of pearl millet seeds with their physiological potential, and evaluate seed vigor using the Seed Vigor Imaging System (SVIS®) compared to other traditional vigor tests. Eight seed lots of the pearl millet cultivar ADR 300 were analyzed for germination, vigor (first count, accelerated aging, cold test, and SVIS®), internal morphology (X-ray), and morphological parameters (perimeter, area, and roundness). The X-ray test is effective in evaluating the internal morphology of pearl millet seeds, allowing identification of mechanical damage and of deteriorated and malformed tissues, making it possible to establish a relationship between the damage observed and the negative effect on germination. SVIS® analyses on two-day-old seedlings are a reliable method for assessing seed vigor of pearl millet. Parameters of perimeter and area of the seeds are related to their physiological potential.

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