VIABILITY AND MORPHOMETRY IN Agave SEEDS AS AN INITIAL STUDY FOR SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT AND GENETIC PRESERVATION

<p><strong>Background: </strong>The Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Valley (TCV), located at the crossroads of the Nearctic and Neotropical biogeographic regions, is a critical hotspot for biodiversity, particularly for the genus <em>Agave</em>. This region plays a vital role in preserving various species, with <em>Agave</em> being one of the most important genus due to its ecological and economic significance. <strong>Methodology: </strong><em>Agave angustifolia, A. cupreata, A. marmorata</em>, <em>A. potatorum, and A. salmiana</em> seed collection was conducted in the TCV, followed by dehydration and storage under controlled conditions. Seed viability was assessed using the tetrazolium chloride (TTC) test. The percentage of viable embryos ( %V) was calculated. Seed morphometry was analyzed by measuring length, width, weight, and volume. <strong>Results: </strong>Significant interspecific variability in seed viability was found. <em>A. marmorata</em> exhibited the highest viability across all time points, reaching 78.49 % at 72 hours, indicating robust physiological mechanisms. In contrast, <em>A. potatorum</em> showed the lowest viability, with a maximum of 57.99 %, likely due to genetic limitations or suboptimal conditions during seed development. Morphometric analysis also revealed significant differences among the tested species, with <em>A. angustifolia</em> seeds being the largest and <em>A. marmorata</em> the smallest. <strong>Implications:</strong> This study underscores the importance of understanding seed viability and morphometric traits in <em>Agave</em> species. These factors are crucial for the conservation and sustainable management of both wild and cultivated populations. The variability in seed viability and morphometric traits has significant implications for conservation efforts, as it can influence regeneration strategies and breeding programs aimed at improving crop yields or conserving native species. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> <em>A. marmorata</em> showed the highest seed viability, indicating robust physiological adaptations, while <em>A. potatorum</em> had the lowest viability and a high percentage of seedless embryos, suggesting potential reproductive challenges. Seed morphometric analysis revealed differences that could affect dispersal and germination success. In the broader context of biodiversity conservation in the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Valley, these results offer valuable insights into the genetic and physiological diversity of <em>Agave</em>, guiding future conservation efforts.<strong></strong></p>