Bioactivators are complex organic substances which modify plant growth. The insecticide thiametoxan activates several physiological reactions, such as protein expression. These proteins interact with several defense mechanisms, allowing the plant to better withstand adverse environmental conditions. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of this bioactivator on the physiological performance of carrot seeds. Seeds of the Brasília cultivar were assessed, which were represented by four lots. The seeds were treated with three insecticide solutions: 0.0 mL, 0.05 mL and 0.4 mL/l. The seed physiological quality was evaluated by the following tests (under presence and absence of water stress): germination, first germination count, accelerated aging, root length, germination speed, electric conductivity, seedling emergence and root length of seedlings grown in a glasshouse environment. Findings showed that thiametoxan stimulated the seed physiological performance, regardless of the water status. Insecticide solutions of 0.05 and 0.4 mL were very efficient but the highest concentration tended to better improve the seed quality.
Daucus carota; thiametoxan; vigor
