Germination and emergence of Miconia sp (Melastomataceae)

Abstract

Melastomataceae is one of the predominant families of Campos Gerais Paranaenses. However, germination and initial growth of the species in the region have been little studied. To investigate the germination, emergence, and initial growth of five Melastomataceae species in the State Park of Guartelá and in the State Park of Vila Velha, germination bioassays and emergence tests were carried out at 20 ºC, 25 ºC, and 30 ºC in a germination chamber and initial growth wasevaluated in a greenhouse. Miconia cinerascens and Miconia sellowiana had the highest percentage of germination (% G) at 25 ºC and 30 ºC. M. auricoma and M. ligustroides showed no difference in the germination percentage at the three temperatures tested, but germination delayed at 20 °C. M. radii germinated only at 25 ºC and 20 °C. Emergence was slow, both in the greenhouse and in B.O.D, with final germination of M. sellowiana completed by about 70 d in the greenhouse. The temperatures of 25 ºC and 30ºC were found an important factor in the germination of Melastomataceae species in Campos Gerais, with M. Auricoma having initial growth slow.