Development of imaging analysis techniques to assess the vigor and internal morphology of seeds

Abstract

Image analysis is a component area of modern research in seed technology since it may reduce the time and increase the precision of the evaluations. Techniques focused on automated vigor determination based on seedling development and noninvasive examination of the internal seed morphology are examples that may provide very important information in quality control programs of the seed companies. However, the adoption of new procedures depends on consistent information and comparable results to traditional methods. Among the cultivated plants multiplied by seeds, vegetables require efficient tests for vigor evaluation, mainly due to the high commercial value of seeds, usually hybrids. In addition, the improvement of noninvasive techniques to assess the internal morphology of seeds, such as magnetic resonance imaging, is essential for the generation of high quality images. The proposals of this research are: (i) to develop an automated system based on morphological characteristics of seedlings for seed vigor evaluation of two vegetable species with economic importance in Brazil - lettuce and tomato; (ii) optimize the image acquisition procedures by magnetic resonance using specific protocols of pulse sequence to capture the hydrogen nuclei signals of the water in the seeds. The knowledge generated may be applied to ensure the physiological potential of commercial seeds and to maximize the economic returns. (AU)