Seed germination studies on Gymnacranthera canarica (King) Warb. - A Vulnerable tree species of a highly threatened Myristica swamp ecosystem

Abstract

Gymnacranthera canarica (King) Warb. is an exclusive Myristica swamp species endemic to the Western Ghats. The Myristica swamp is a Critically Endangered ecosystem. Studies were carried out to assess the viability, germination and storage behaviour of Gymnacranthera canarica seeds. In the present study, it was observed that seeds have shown an initiation of germination after two weeks. A maximum of 90% germination was recorded when the initial moisture content was 38.04 ± 1.75 %. A decreased percentage (3%) was observed when the moisture content reached 14.26 ± 2.3 after 70 days of storage. Seeds failed to germinate beyond this moisture level. A desiccation study showed recalcitrant behaviour and seeds can be stored in lab conditions for up to two and half months.