Phytase and alpha-amylase activity are positively associated with seed vigor in common bean seeds¹

ABSTRACT

Seed vigor is one of main attributes of the physiological quality from seed lot. Thus, identify which mechanisms are used by seeds of higher vigor that favor the formation of seedlings with better performance is a key aspect in agriculture. The enzyme activity of phytase and alpha-amylase favor the availability of phosphorus and sugars, respectively, during germination and can be determinants of seed vigor. Thus, the objective of the present work was to identify the association of phytase and alpha-amylase enzymes with the vigor of a seed lot of common beans. The results showed a positive correlation between seed vigor and the enzymes evaluated. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that seeds with high vigor have a high capacity to form seedlings with better performance, because they present high enzymatic activity. Also, in seed lots of the same genotype, they can be used to determine seed vigor during germination.

Keywords:
Reserve mobilization; Germination; Seedling growth; Enzyme markers