Seed viability constants for groundnut

Abstract

This research determined constants for a viability equation to predict the longevity of groundnut seeds and to improve the management of seedlot storage throughout the trading period. Seeds of the Brazilian cultivar 'Tatu' (Valencia bunch type) were tested. Nine moisture content levels (ranging from 2.4 to 12.8 %) and three storage temperatures (40, 50 and 65 °C) were used. Sub-samples for each moisture content-storage temperature combination were sealed in laminated aluminium-foil packets and stored in incubators until complete survival curves were obtained. A reliable equation was obtained to predict groundnut seed longevity through the constants K(E) = 6.177, C(W) = 3.426, C(H) = 0.0304 and C(Q) = 0.000453.