Seed germination and seedling development of Magnolia guatapensis (Lozano) Govaerts (Magnoliaceae): an endangered tree species from Colombia

Abstract

Background: The seeds of Magnolia guatapensis shows difficulties to germinate and the seedlings have a low development rate. Questions: How long does it take the germination of M. guatapensis seeds? Is there a relationship between the substrate sterilization and the germination process? Which is the effect of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AMF) in M. guatapensis? Studied species: Magnolia guatapensis Study site and dates: Medellín, Colombia. August 2020. Methods: Analyses of the seed’s viability were performed with a tetrazolium test and through germination evaluation. Also, the seedling obtained were inoculated with Glomus spp, evaluating their growth up to 240 days of germination. The colonization of seedling roots by AMF was compared with to the adult trees. Results: Magnolia guatapensis fruits measured 36 mm on average, they had 12 carpels with 1 or 2 seeds each. The seeds show a viability of 23 % through the tetrazolium test and 57 % measured through germination in sterilized soil. A higher percentage of germination was found between 38 and 40 days. In adult trees, the roots showed up to 80.2 % of colonization by AMF. Colonization in seedlings was not observed, although the seedlings inoculated with Glomus showed greater stem diameter and leaf area. Conclusions: According to the results obtained, the growth stage of the M. guatapensis seedling is the most critical for the survival of the individuals. It is necessary to continue studying successful propagation methods of M. guatapensis and symbiosis with microorganisms to contribute to the conservation of the species.