The respiratory activity study of several soybean varieties using CO2 sensors

The respiratory activity of soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill.) seeds during the germination stage has been evaluated using CO2 sensors. Three indigenous soybean varieties: Aura, Viorela and Moldovita were selected for the study. The respiratory activity was assessed by measuring the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in a gas mixture using PASCO Technologies. Changes in CO2 levels were monitored using model PS-3208 wireless CO2 gas sensors. The heightened respiratory activity in the Aura variety was positively correlated with greater thousand kernel weight, higher germination energy and germination capacity of the seeds. The obtained CO2 content data highlights the seeds’ ability to mobilize reserve materials during germination. This information can be valuable in elucidating differences in the fundamental processes of seed germination among crop varieties, with consideration given to environmental conditions.