Seed storage responses and germination in Vateria indica

Vateria indica L., an vulnerable and indigenous tree species of the southern Western Ghats, faces significant threats that necessitate urgent conservation efforts. As a tropical recalcitrant species, its seeds are highly sensitive to desiccation and exhibit rapid loss of viability, posing challenges for conservation and propagation strategies. Understanding the germination and storage behaviour of V. indica seeds is crucial for conserving this species and ensuring seed viability for short term storage techniques. This study aimed to evaluate the germination behaviour and the effects of storage temperature on seed viability. Seeds were collected at maturity from 10 individual trees and stored in perforated, airtight plastic containers at ambient temperatures, 20°C, 15°C, 10°C, and 5°C. Initial germination was recorded at 90% with a moisture content of 48%. Results indicated that seeds maintained 80% germination viability at 20°C for up to 65 days. These findings highlight that seeds can be stored at 20°C under short-term storage conditions, offering practical insights into optimal storage techniques for this species.