Ecophysiology and Morphology
Germinating seed of Trithrinax brasiliensis (Arecaceae)
Nobody will be able to grow plants from seeds in the Bank (and thus make use of them) unless they can germinate them. Also, germinating samples of seeds is still the most reliable way to check the viability of our collections.
We need to develop practical methods for germinating seeds of diverse species from a wide range of habitats.
To do this we must understand how the factors affecting seed germination and dormancy act.
Longitudinal section of Porlieria chilensis seed (Zygophyllaceae)
Seeds of different species are more or less adapted to their individual environments, presumably to maximise the chances of seedling survival. They mostly do this by only germinating in particular seasons or micro-sites. Our research aims to understand the ways in which environmental factors such as light and temperature act on the way seeds function (thus, 'eco-physiology'). We also look at seed structure (morphology) and its effects on germination and dormancy.
Seed of Blepharis edulis(Acanthaceae)
Water-impermeable seed coats and the shedding of mature seeds with under-developed embryos are two ways that structure can affect germination. By using the results of our research to predict likely successful germination conditions we will be able to germinate living seeds at will.
Contact: Dr Wolfgang Stuppy
See the Science Directory for a full list of projects included in this Theme
