Morphology and germination of Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. seeds

Abstract: The occurrence of damage and empty space inside the seed can directly affect germination. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the occurrence of damage or empty space inside cowpea seeds and the physiological potential. In this study, seven lots of seeds of the cultivar ‘BRS Guariba’ were subjected to the X-ray test to identify damage by tissue deterioration, mechanical damage, damage by insects and malformed seeds and, later, to the germination test. The percentage of empty space between the embryonic area and the seed coat was determined from radiographic images in ImageJ software. Based on the results obtained, the seeds were classified into different categories, and the results were compared with the germination data. It was concluded that the analysis of radiographic images allowed the identification of damage and measurement of empty space in the internal cavity of the seeds, making it possible to establish a relationship between internal morphology and germination. The presence of damage, especially that caused by tissue deterioration or mechanical damage, depending on its location and intensity, has the potential to negatively affect the germination of cowpea seeds. Likewise, seeds that contain higher levels of empty space in their internal cavity tend not to germinate or to generate abnormal seedlings at the time of germination.