Utilização do teste de raios x na avaliação da qualidade de sementes de espécies florestais de Lauraceae

Abstract

The X-ray test is an important technique to evaluate seed quality, mainly because it is a non-destructive method. The objectives of this study were to adapt the X-ray method to verify the occurrence of alteration in the internal morphology and its effects on the seed quality of the species of Lauraceae which grow in the south of Minas Gerais State, Brazil. The seeds were submitted to different times and intensities of radiation exposure, using X-ray equipment. The intensity of 25kV for two minutes allowed clear visualization of alteration in internal morphology of the seeds of Ocotea pulchella and Persea pyrifolia. In seeds of Nectandra grandiflora, Nectandra lanceolata and Nectandra nitidula, the intensity of 30kV for two minutes gave better results. Internal damage, irrespective of its origin, affected seed viability, with exception of the smaller injuries located far from the embryonic axis.