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Changes in the microflora on the seed surface and seed vigor of maize (Zea mays) under different conditions

Summary

This study examined how different humidity levels during seed storage affect the types of fungi that grow on maize seeds and how this impacts seed quality. Researchers found that high humidity causes different fungi to colonize seeds and dramatically reduces the seeds’ ability to germinate and grow. The fungi harm seeds by producing toxins and reducing their energy production, making stored seeds much less viable for farming.

Background

Seed vigor encompasses germination capacity, seedling formation ability, and seed production potential. During storage, seed deterioration is inevitable, but changes in seed surface microflora and their effects on seed vigor under different storage conditions have rarely been studied.

Objective

To investigate the changes in fungal species on the surface and embryo of hybrid maize cultivar Zhengdan958 seeds under different storage conditions and their effects on seed vigor by analyzing microflora composition and seed vigor indicators.

Results

At 33% RH, Fusarium sp. dominated the seed surface while Aspergillus fumigatus dominated the embryo. At 91% RH, Aspergillus jensenii dominated the surface while Penicillium sp. dominated the embryo. Increased RH resulted in 86.67% decrease in germination rate, decreased respiration rate by 0.04 mg·g⁻¹·h⁻¹, increased MDA content by 0.99 nmol·g⁻¹, decreased ATP content by 0.33 μmol·g⁻¹, and reduced mRNA integrity of ATP synthase subunits.

Conclusion

Changes in seed surface microflora induced by increased relative humidity during storage is an important factor causing decreased seed vigor. Different microbial communities and their metabolic activities significantly impact seed deterioration through effects on energy metabolism and oxidative stress.
  • Published in:PLoS One,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: 10.1371/journal.pone.0311258; PMID: 39570885
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