Vigor of canola seeds through accelerated aging test and anatomical alterations

Abstract

Canola is an oilseed crop of significant economic importance for food, feed production, and biodiesel, requiring high-quality seeds to ensure germination, uniformity, and productivity. This study evaluated the suitability of the accelerated aging test to assess seed vigor, as well as anatomical and histochemical alterations after artificial aging. Five seed lots of the Diamond cultivar were evaluated using germination, seedling emergence, and cold tests. The accelerated aging test was conducted using the traditional method and saturated solution with NaCl and KCl at 41 °C for 24 to 96 hours. Seed sections were stained for anatomical and histochemical analysis. The traditional method resulted in more significant seed deterioration, while the saturated solution with KCl for 24 hours preserved physiological quality, presenting cellular and staining patterns similar to non-aged seeds. After 96 hours in the traditional method, cellular disorganization and reduced protein bodies and lipid droplets were observed. The accelerated aging test using saturated solution with KCl at 41 °C for 24 hours proved effective in assessing seed vigor without compromising physiological integrity. © 2025, Federal University of Lavras. All rights reserved.