Effects of elevated temperatures on germination and subsequent seedling vigour in recalcitrant Trichilia emetica seeds

摘要: Abstract An increase in atmospheric temperature, particularly tropical regions, appears to be an inevitable consequence of global climate change. This is likely affect plant diversity and performance, owing the relationship between temperature seed germination, vigour. The aim present study was investigate potential effects elevated temperatures on germination subsequent seedling vigour a recalcitrant-seeded (desiccation sensitive) African forest species, Trichilia emetica . Freshly harvested T. seeds were grown at ambient (24 ± 2/14 ± 2 °C) (29 ± 2/20 ± 2 °C) midday/night monitored for germinability, respiratory activity, reactive oxygen species (superoxide hydrogen peroxide) production, total antioxidant activity ultrastructural integrity. Seedlings subsequently produced subjected various growth measurements compare those temperatures. results suggest that exposure (~ 5 6 °C above ambient) did not disrupt metabolic integrity T embryonic axes consequently compromise production. Provided sufficient water made available, may even hasten germinative development improve competitive ability seedlings by enhancing rates, leaf area biomass allocation aerial parts plant.