Germination and Growth of Luetzelburgia Auriculata (German) Ducke Seedlings are Influenced by Water Regime

Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the germination and growth of Luetzelburgia auriculata seedlings, depending on different water regimes. Theoretical Framework: Global climate change has caused irregularities in rainfall distribution, resulting in reduced water availability, negatively affecting seed germination and plant growth. These factors raise concerns from an environmental and scientific perspective, highlighting the need to understand the behavior of species under adverse conditions of water restrictions. Method: Five treatments were tested, corresponding to 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100% of the pot capacity, with four replicates of 25 seeds. The tests were conducted in the laboratory, using a gerbox type germination box, 100 g of Tropstrato substrate and a BOD type germination chamber, with a temperature of 25°C. The following variables were analyzed: First Count (PC), Germination (G), Germination Speed ​​Index (IVG), Average Germination Time (TMG), Shoot Length (CPA), Root Length (CR), Diameter and Total Dry Mass (MST). Results and Discussion: It was observed that L. auriculata seeds showed tolerance to low water availability, with higher germination and IVG percentages under 20% of the pot capacity, differing from the length of the aerial part that was more affected by the lower water availability. For root length, 100% of the pot capacity provided significant reductions. As for TMG, diameter and total dry mass did not show significant differences between treatments. Therefore, the germination and vigor of L. auriculata seeds demonstrated tolerance to low water levels, but for seedling growth, a new study with a longer duration is recommended. Research Implications: Possibility of reducing the amount of water used in the germination process of the species under study. Originality/Value: Understand the adaptability of Luetzelburgia auriculata to water scarcity, a crucial aspect for the sustainability of the Caatinga ecosystem, a region vulnerable to desertification.