Are Seeds of Genipa americana L. (Rubiaceae) Tolerance to Water Submersion?

Abstract

The knowledge of the germination responses of seeds from plants growing along river margins or in areas susceptible to flooding is an important factor in the adoption of restoration practices. Considering that maturation of fruits of Genipa Americana L. when river margins are flooded, we raised some questions: Is seed germination of this species affected by water submersion, and, do distinct seed populations present differences in germination? Seeds of G. Americana were submerged in water for different periods to assess the germination and growing responses, using populations from different locations. Water submersion decreased the germination percentage and the germination speed index, and increased seed mean germination time in both populations. Growth was found to be hampered for most variables in the different seed populations. The adaptation of G. Americana to flooding involves the seeds being tolerant to submersion, with this factor not being effective in distinguishing populations studied here.

Análise Da Germinação, Do Crescimento E Da Aclimatização Da Uncaria Guianensis Em Função Da Planta Matriz E Do Tipo De Meio De Cultivo

“…Em experimento com Genipa americana (Rubiaceae), o IVG diferiu entre as duas amostras de sementes, atribuindo a diferença devido ao pool genético das populações (BRANDANI et al, 2018).…”

Selection of Genipa americana L. seed trees by genetic divergence in fruits, seeds, and seedlings

“…The highlight of this species for restoration is its use as food and shelter for local fauna (Ragusa-Netto 2015; Cunha et al 2020), facilitating nuclei of diversity with the arrival of new species brought by fauna to its surroundings. Also, G. americana can be implemented in areas with restrictions, susceptible to ooding, and with hydromorphic soils, because the species is resistant to these conditions (Brandani et al 2018;Pires et al 2018).…”