Bulk conductivity test variables for mungbean, soybean and French bean seed lots

1992

A:PS

The effects of seed moisture content on conductivity in large-seeded legumes, and some aspects of methodology which may influence conductivity test results, were examined. Low initial seed moisture (<10%) increased the conductivity of mungbean (Phaseolus mungo) [? Vigna radiata] and soyabean cv. Amsoy seed lots because of imbibition damage, but decreased conductivity of P. vulgaris cv. Green Crop and Top Crop seeds because of the formation of hard seed. Conductivity of soyabean seed lots did not differ at seed moisture contents between 10 and 22%. Mung bean seed lot conductivity was similar at both 10 and 14% seed moisture, but declined as seed moisture content increased. Significant differences in P. vulgaris seed lot conductivity were recorded at 10, 14 and 18% seed moisture. A soak temperature of 25³C produced greater conductivity than 20³, but seed lot ranking did not alter. Coefficients of variation were lower for 2 replicates of 50 seeds than for 4 replicates of 25 seeds, but lowest for 4 replicates of 50 seeds for all 3 species. Reducing soak water volume from 250 to 75 ml increased conductivity, but had no effect on the variability of results. A procedure which differs from both the current ISTA and AOSA recommended methods is proposed for bulk conductivity testing of large-seeded legumes.

v.20(3):677-686, SEED SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Research > Published Articles