Seed maturity of <i>Anadenanthera colubrina</i> (Vell.) Brenan

Abstract

This research aimed to determine the best time to harvest Anadenanthera colubrina (Vell.) Brenan seeds based on fruit color. The fruits were classified in four maturation stages: fruit with a moderate yellow green color; fruit with dark brown color; fruit with dark reddish-brown color; fruit with a light brown color. The seeds were evaluated for biometric characteristics and tested for germination and vigor. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design. The averages were compared by the Tukey test (p ≤ 0.05). A non-parametric Spearman correlation analysis was performed between maturation stages and physical and physiological characteristics of the seeds. The largest size averages were observed in seeds from fruits with green and dark brown color. Seeds from fruits with dark brown and reddish-brown color showed drastic reduction in the water content, and high germinative potential and vigor. Strong and negative correlations were observed between maturation stage and seed physical characteristics. On the other hand, the accumulation of dry mass, germination potential, emergence and vigor indexes showed strong correlations and were directly proportional to maturation stage. The color of the fruit was shown to be a good indicator of the physiological maturity of the seeds of Anadenanthera colubrina. Fruits with a reddish-brown and light brown color have superior physiological quality, and thus, indicative of time for seed harvest.