Morpho-anatomical and biochemical characterization of Strelitzia reginae seeds and embryos

Abstract

Strelitzia or bird-of-paradise, is an important tropical ornamental plant that is difficult to propagate because of seed dormancy issues and the low number of seedlings obtained from plant divisions. With greater knowledge of its structure, it is possible to develop strategies to improve the propagation process for this species, since information on this subject is currently limited. Thus, the objective was to carry out an anatomical, morphological and biochemical characterization of Strelitzia reginae seeds and embryos. The characterization of the seeds was performed through image analysis using GroundEye equipment, X-rays, and anatomical and biochemical analyses. Additionally, the following biometric characteristics of the seeds were obtained: an area of 0.33 cm2, a maximum diameter of 0.736 cm, a maximum lateral diameter of 0.59 cm, a minimum diameter of 0.58 cm, and a perimeter of 2.47 cm. The seeds of S. reginae can be considered starchy since they contain 15% starch. By integument anatomical analysis, we observed the presence of an exotesta (ex) and a posterior parenchymatic layer that was divided into a mesotest (m) and endotest (en). The characterization of Strelitzia reginae seeds and embryos showed relevant observations for the taxonomy and physiology of this species. The seeds are aleurostarches and present an area of 0.33 cm2 on average, with maximum lateral diameter of 0.59 cm. As result of anatomical studies, it was possible to determine coat responsible for integument dormancy.

Image-based approach for postharvest characterization of Red Torch inflorescences

“…GroundEye is a tool that allows for the analysis and extraction of information regarding morphological characteristics, such as size, shape, texture, and color. Widely recognized for its speed, objectivity, and often non-destructive process (Taniguchi et al 2022), this tool was crucial in characterizing the properties of the Red Torch inflorescence. Additionally, the GroundEye equipment has shown promise in evaluating the physiological potential of various species (Andriazzi et al 2020).…”

How Scarification, GA3 and Graphene Oxide Influence the In Vitro Establishment and Development of Strelitzia

“…In a study on the characterization of strelitzia seed coloration, it was determined that black predominates, accounting for 80% of the seed, with lower values for blue (7%), sky blue (7%), and dark gray (6%) [3]. Since red coloration was not detected, it is evident that it is associated with the reaction resulting from the action of sulfuric acid, as well as the increase in orange percentages (Table 1).…”

“…Seed propagation is facilitated by the high number of dehiscent fruits produced by the inflorescence. However, there is a limitation due to the prolonged germination time caused by physical and chemical seed dormancy [1][2][3]. These propagation limitations highlight the need for studies to improve the commercial production process of seedlings, especially through seeds, by identifying efficient treatments to overcome dormancy and optimize germination [1,4].…”