Ethanol test as a determinant of physiological potential of forest species seeds: The case of Plathymenia reticulata Benth. (Leguminosae–Mimosoideae), a tree of interest for Atlantic Forest restoration

Abstract

The ethanol test supplies information on physiological problems related to seed deterioration. The test optimization is crucial for its application in the seed analysis routine. This study aimed to evaluate vigor test for Plathymenia reticulata seeds based on ethanol production in order to establish execution guidelines and verify its relationship with other seed vigor tests. Seed lots were subjected to germination and vigor tests, and seed coat evaluation. Ethanol production assessment was carried out based on two trials testing water volumes for imbibition (0.25; 0.5; 0.75; 1.00; and 1.25 mL), reading periods (2, 4, 6, 8, 24, and 48 h), and seed quantities (5, 10, and 15). There was a distinction in physiological potential between the lots, indicated by the ethanol test and other traditionally used tests. The ethanol test was efficient for vigor assessment in Plathymenia seeds, as were the other vigor tests, when conducted with 15 seeds imbibed in a volume of water 2.5 times their mass for 48 h. The vigor test based on ethanol production proved reliable and it is recommended for use in a system of seed production and commercialization in nurseries and forestry companies.