Effect of Hydrogen Peroxide on Physiological Quality and Germination of Aged Pumpkin Seeds under Drought Stress Condition [RESEARCH NOTE]

Authors

Hossein Reza Rouhi, Bu-Ali Sina University, Islamic Republic of Iran
Mohammad Hasan Vafaei, Bu-Ali Sina University, Islamic Republic of IranFollow
Maryam Saman, Payame Noor University, Islamic Republic of Iran
Ali Abbasi Surki, Shahrekord University, Islamic Republic of Iran

Publication Date

3-31-2021

Abstract

The physiological quality of seeds decreases during their storage under unfavourable conditions. These deteriorated seeds exhibit a poorer performance, especially under stress conditions. A factorial experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of H₂O₂ on the germination of aged pumpkin seeds under drought stress. Hydroprimed seeds and also the seeds pre-treated with 100, 200, and 400 μM H₂O₂ were exposed to drought (0, -0.2, -0.4, and -0.6 MPa applied using PEG). Under drought conditions, seeds primed with H₂O₂ showed improved germination percentages and rates, higher vigour index, greater plumule and radicle lengths, enhanced soluble sugars and protein contents, and more antioxidant enzymes activities e.g. catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase in comparison to untreated controls. However, mean germination time and malondialdehyde (MDA) content total soluble proteins decreased in primed seeds. Those primed with 100 μM H₂O₂ showed the highest germination rate, vigour index, soluble sugars, and total soluble protein by 93, 46, 76, and 51% respectively at a drought level of -0.6 MPa. H₂O₂ at 100 μM applied to deteriorated total soluble proteins pumpkin seeds reduced of the negative effects of deterioration, especially under drought stress.

Recommended Citation

Rouhi, Hossein Reza; Vafaei, Mohammad Hasan; Saman, Maryam; and Surki, Ali Abbasi (2021) "Effect of Hydrogen Peroxide on Physiological Quality and Germination of Aged Pumpkin Seeds under Drought Stress Condition [RESEARCH NOTE]," The Philippine Agricultural Scientist: Vol. 104: No. 5, Article 1.
Available at: https://www.ukdr.uplb.edu.ph/pas/vol104/iss5/1