A Seed Vigor Test Through a Biospeckle Laser: A Comparison of Local and Global Analyses

Seed vigor testing traditionally requires large sample sizes and extended durations. The biospeckle laser (BSL) technique offers a faster, image-based alternative for seed analysis though the standardization of set protocols. This study evaluated the efficiency of local and global BSL analyses in bean seeds (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Two groups of seeds (872 in total) were classified into high- and low-vigor seeds using the emergence test over 800 samples. The BSL test was then applied to 72 seeds (36 per group), analyzing biological activity locally (vascular and embryonic areas) and globally (whole image). BSL analysis detected significant differences between the groups (p < 0.05). Among the methods, the local analysis of the embryonic axis was most effective (F = 44.252, p = 0.000), showing a clearer distinction than the global analysis (F = 19.484, p = 0.000). The vascular area analysis did not yield significant results. These findings highlight the efficiency of the local BSL analysis at the embryonic axis for vigor tests compared to the global analysis. However, it was observed that the selected point in the local analysis affects the reliability of the vigor test. It was a relevant step toward standardization demanding additional tests in other species and varieties.