Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Premise Embryo excision is an effective, under‐described means of promoting germination in the sunflower family and may help to ensure the survival of endangered taxa or lineages with limited seed availability. Methods and Results We describe and illustrate a detailed method of embryo excision used successfully to stimulate germination in a diversity of composites and that requires minimal materials and expense, using Layia platyglossa as an example. We show how this procedure greatly increases germination compared to control treatments in Madia elegans, a close relative of Hawaiian silverswords that exhibits physiological dormancy. Conclusions This technique can be learned quickly and is highly effective. Embryo excision can aid conservation efforts dependent on minimal seed resources by enhancing germination and allowing evaluation of seed quality before or after storage, as well as synchronizing seedling development, thereby allowing for refinement of ex situ seed bank conditions and efficient use of horticultural resources.
Source: Applications in Plant Sciences
DOI: 10.1002/aps3.11608
Authors: Bruce G. Baldwin, Susan Fawcett, Dustin Wolkis
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Life on land
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,970
OpenAlex ID: W4401613208