Genetic Effects on Corn Seed Longevity

Abstract

This study aimed to elucidate the maternal and paternal genetic effects of the physiological quality of hybrid seed corn over time, as well as the contribution of heterosis for this trait. The seeds of single hybrids, reciprocals and parents were obtained by manual crosses in a complete diallel cross scheme. The analyses of germination and accelerated aging were performed and the data were analyzed with Tukey test and Griffing method. The quadratic components of general combining ability were similar to the effects of specific combining ability and superior to reciprocal, in most evaluation periods, implying that the effects on seed quality characters were attributed to genes of additive effect and genes of non-additive effect. The maternal effect of corn seed longevity was highly significant however its contribution was smaller than general combining ability and specific combining ability effects, but proved to be important in combinations of parents with lower estimate of general combining ability.

Early selection for drought tolerance in popcorn based on gene effects estimated in seedlings

“…To date, the effects of water stress on trait expression in the early stages of popcorn development have not yet been studied. Therefore, understanding the genetic basis of trait performance in the seed germination and seedling development phases is important for planning breeding programs targeting the early selection of genotypes adapted to water stress ( Ju et al., 2018 ; Dwivedi et al., 2021 ; Mota et al., 2021 ; Reis et al., 2022 ). Diallel crosses provide genetic information in estimates and partitioning of the combining ability of the parents ( Mota et al., 2021 ).…”

“…Therefore, understanding the genetic basis of trait performance in the seed germination and seedling development phases is important for planning breeding programs targeting the early selection of genotypes adapted to water stress ( Ju et al., 2018 ; Dwivedi et al., 2021 ; Mota et al., 2021 ; Reis et al., 2022 ). Diallel crosses provide genetic information in estimates and partitioning of the combining ability of the parents ( Mota et al., 2021 ). These data make it possible to estimate the existence and relative importance of additive, non-additive, and environmental effects on traits.…”

Numerical and Experimental Analysis of the Vacuum Corn Seed Degassing System

“…By removing the air (degassing) around the seeds, oxidation and decomposition are prevented, contributing to their long-term preservation; • Seeds become more permeable, allowing them to absorb treatment evenly and more efficiently, facilitating the subsequent absorption of water and nutrients necessary for germination [4][5][6][7]; • The vacuum environment can help destroy and eliminate harmful microorganisms or reduce the number of pathogens and pests that may be present on the surface of the seeds, potentially affecting germination and plant health [3,8]; • Vacuum treatment can activate certain enzymes in seeds, accelerating the biochemical processes necessary for germination [9][10][11][12][13]; • By using vacuum treatment, the required quantity of treatment substances can be minimized, reducing waste and potential environmental impact [14,15].…”

“…Treating seeds in vacuum chambers is commonly used in agricultural and horticultural settings to improve seed quality and germination rates, leading to enhanced crop yields and plant health [6,11,13,18]. However, it is crucial to ensure that seed treatment is carried out with appropriate equipment and under controlled conditions to avoid seed damage or the onset of undesirable negative effects.…”

“…Numerical analysis represents a valuable experience that demonstrates how mathematical concepts are useful in aiding our quest for a better understanding of the physical world. The goal was to understand and optimize the process, as well as to improve the quality and germination rate of the seeds [10][11][12][13].…”