Influence of Accelerated Ageing on Physiological Parameters of Sorghum Seed [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]
Sachin Kumar Maurya
Department of Seed Science and Technology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi (U.P.), India.
Mousmi Syed *
Department of Seed Science and Technology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi (U.P.), India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the impact of accelerated ageing on the physiological quality of Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench seeds, specifically the variety CoFs-31. Seeds were exposed to accelerated ageing conditions at 45°C and 95±5% relative humidity for 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours, with unaged seeds serving as the control. Following treatment, key physiological parameters—germination percentage, seedling length, seedling vigour index (SVI), field emergence, and electrical conductivity (EC) of seed leachates—were assessed. The results revealed a highly significant decline in germination (up to 39.55%), seedling length (24.79%), seedling vigour index (54.63%), and field emergence (37.18%) as the duration of ageing increased. In contrast, EC increased significantly, indicating membrane deterioration and loss of seed integrity. Accelerated ageing negatively impacts seed viability and physiological quality. This study provides insights into seed deterioration mechanisms and supports the selection of sorghum varieties with better storability and field performance.
Keywords: Seed physiological performance, membrane integrity and electrolyte leakage, seed vigour index evaluation, accelerated seed ageing test, germination decline due to ageing