Environmental factors on seed germination, seedling survival and initial growth of sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis L.)

Abstract: Sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis L.) is an Amazon species of elevated agro-industrial potential due the high content of omega-3 and omega-6 in its seeds. Despite of it, little information about its propagation by seeds is currently available. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess seed germination, seedling survival and growth of this species under different conditions of substrate (on paper, between papers and paper roll), light (continuous darkness, 12-h photoperiod and continuous light) and temperature (continuous temperature at 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 °C). Germination is stimulated by substrates with increased surface contact with the seeds, presence of light and temperatures between 25 and 35 °C. Survival and initial growth of seedlings are favored by vermiculite, continuous light and 30 °C temperature. These conditions allow rapid and uniform germination of seeds and better establishment and development of seedlings. We encourage the propagation of sacha inchi by seeds, since we consider it a feasible technique.

摘要：星油藤（Sacha inchi，Plukenetia volubilis L.）是原产于亚马逊流域的物种，其种子富含Omega-3与Omega-6，具有较高的农工业开发潜力。尽管如此，当前关于其种子繁殖的相关研究资料仍较为匮乏。为此，本研究旨在探究不同发芽基质（纸上发芽法、纸间发芽法、纸卷发芽法）、光照条件（持续黑暗、12小时光周期、持续光照）以及温度（20、25、30、35、40℃恒温）下，该物种的种子萌发、幼苗存活与生长表现。研究结果显示，与种子接触面积更大的发芽基质、光照环境以及25℃至35℃的温度区间，均可有效促进种子萌发；蛭石基质、持续光照与30℃恒温则更利于幼苗存活及初期生长。上述条件可实现种子的快速整齐萌发，并助力幼苗实现更佳的定植与生长发育效果。综上，我们认为种子繁殖是切实可行的技术手段，建议推广星油藤的种子繁殖方式。