Abstract

MAZZOLA, Mónica B; CENIZO, Viviana J  and  KIN, Alicia G. Factores que afectan la germinación de Trichocereus candicans (Cactaceae). Bol. Soc. Argent. Bot. [online]. 2013, vol.48, n.3-4, pp.515-523. ISSN 1851-2372.

Factors affecting the germination of Trichocereus candicans (Cactaceae). In arid and semiarid regions, water availability and temperature are critical for cacti germination. The present study examined the effects of water stress and temperature, on germination of Trichocereus candicans, a cacti species native of Argentina. Water availability effects were tested using solutions of different water potential: 0, -0.1, -0.4, -0.7 y -1.0 MPa Treatments included temperatures of 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 20/10, 25/15 and 30/20°C. Total percentage, rate and mean germination time were determined. Results indicate that germination was higher when water availability is about 0 to -0.1 MPa, and then decreased when water potential reached -0.4 MPa or less. Maximum germination percentage and speed occurred around 25ºC but decreased below 15 and above 35ºC. Results suggest that T. candicans is adapted to germinate during the warm season months when precipitation events occur. Knowledge obtained in this study could be useful for developing conservations plans and ex situ propagation of the species.

Keywords : Trichocereus candicans; Germination; Cacti.

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