SAES-422 Multistate Research Activity Accomplishments Report
Sections
Status: Approved
Basic Information
- Project No. and Title: W168 : Seed Biology, Technology, and Ecology
- Period Covered: 01/01/2002 to 12/01/2002
- Date of Report: 12/06/2003
- Annual Meeting Dates: 01/16/2003 to 01/18/2003
Participants
Kent Bradford (University of California); Richard Heimsch (University of Idaho); Allen Knapp (Iowa State University); Marc Cohn (Louisiana State University); Greg Welbaum (Virginia Tech.); Alan Taylor (Cornell University--Geneva); Ralph Obendorf (Cornell University-Ithaca); Dennis TeKrony (University of Kentucky); Harrison Hughes (Colorado State University); Hiro Nonogaki (Oregon State University); Miller McDonald (Ohio State University); Daniel Leskovar (Texas A & M); Mitch McGrath (USDA-ARS, East Lansing, MI). Others in attendance from Univ. of Kentucky: Robert Geneve, C. C. Baskin, J. M. Baskin and several graduate students.
Minutes of the W-168 Annual Meeting
W-168- Seed Biology, Technology, and Ecology
January 16-18, 2003
University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
Thursday, January 16, 2003
The rewrite committee met at 2:00p for discussion and work on the new proposal development.
Members gathered at the Sheraton Hotel at 5:30p for and informal discussion followed by dinner.
Friday, January 17, 2003
Dennis TeKrony, chair, welcomed the committee and others followed by a general introduction of members and visitors. He introduced the Assoc. Director of the Agriculture Experiment Station. A presentation of the Seed Biology program at the University of Kentucky was made.
Dr. M. Scott Smith, Dean and Director of Agriculture at the University of Kentucky, was introduced. He presented an overview of agriculture in the state and university. He noted the dramatic changes occurring as tobacco production is on the decline and the need to develop other areas in agriculture. The horse industry is now rated as the # 1 Agriculture industry in the state.
Dr. Richard Heimsch, Administrator Advisor, thanked the folks at the University of Kentucky for their support of these meetings. He then presented a brief overview of the seed biology project for the many new members and others. He noted that this was the 5th rewrite of the Seed Biology, Technology and Ecology program. May 15, 2003 is the date for completion of the rewrite of this project. It must be submitted prior to this date with a NIMSS site assigned so that members may go online and make corrections. Members must fill out Appendix E and send electronically to Richard Heimsch.
Dr. Michael Fitzner, USDA/CSREES/PAS is the new federal representative to this project. He will try to make next years meeting.
The rewrite committee was identified (Taylor Chair, Bradford, Welbaum, McDonald and Cohn) and they noted progress to date. Approximately 30 people have been identified who have an interest in the project. There have been 17 people who have contributed in the 4 identified areas. A handout detailing the title and 4 objectives was handed out. Those interested in participating need to submit by March 15 a one-page area of specific interests related to the 4 objectives.
A motion was made and seconded to pass the W-168 project proposal and was passed unanimously.
The committee then solicited nominations for secretary and secretary-elect. Harrison Hughes was elected as secretary and Daniel Leskovac (Texas A & M) as secretary-elect.
Next years meeting will be at the University of California-Davis and will be scheduled for mid-January 2004.
State Reports
Kent Bradford reported for California, Marc Cohn for Louisiana, and Harrison Hughes for Colorado. Bob Geneve, from Kentucky, talked about seed related work in Horticulture. Allen Knapp reported for Iowa, Daniel Leskovar for Texas, and Miller McDonald for Ohio. Mitch McGrath, USDA-ARS in Michigan, reported on work there.
Meeting adjourned for the day. The folks at University of Kentucky hosted an evening dinner at the campus faculty club.
Saturday, January 18.
The meeting started at 8:30a with report of seed work in Oregon by Hiro Nonogaki. Ralph Obendorf on work at Cornell, Ithaca while Alan Taylor reported on work at Geneva, New York. This was followed by a report by Greg Welbaum from Virginia.
The business part of the meeting was reconvened with a brief discussion of pertinent points on the upcoming completion of the current 5-year proposal and further words on the new proposal.
A brief discussion on outreach objectives ensued. Ralph Obendorf noted he has a mailing list on seed biology that he maintains. He volunteered to work with the W-168 members to set up a mailing list for the group. He requested that you e-mail him directly, rlo1@cornell.edu requesting your name be added to the list or subscribe via e-mailing directly to seed_biology_l@cornell.edu.
Discussion continued on upcoming meetings of various types. In 2005 there will be an International Seed Biology meeting in Australia. There is also a Seed Desiccation Conference in South Africa being organized by the ISSS.
A suggestion for a symposium was made. Al Taylor will appoint a subcommittee to prepare this as an item for discussion at the Davis meeting. It was also suggested that the committee organize a workshop for Seed Biology at the Plant and Animal Genome Meeting.
The next series of discussion points was about funding seed research. Topics discussed were American Seed Research Foundation, ASTA and funding through the federal government. It was suggested that the seed industry and the universities need to request that seed biology be an area for greater research funding. The possibility for special grants for cooperative research in seed biology was also discussed. Several members of the committee will pursue possibilities along these lines.
It was announced that Kent Bradford was this years recipient for the Seed Science Award.
Marc Cohn then gave a report on Seed Science Research. He noted that about 33% of papers submitted are accepted. About 1/3 is sent back to the authors because the topics are judged as outside the scope of the publication. He announced 2 new Associate Editors: Kent Bradford and Derek Bewley. Marc noted that the turnaround time from submittal to acceptance or rejection has been reduced. He also stated that on average the publications are cited 12 times per week.
The resolutions are attached. The meeting was adjourned at 12:00p.
Respectively submitted,
Harrison Hughes
Secretary
RESOLUTION
Because of the high quality of presentations and discussions evident in the 2002 W-168 Regional Technical Committee Meetings and whereas the participants were greatly enriched by the experience to visit the outstanding facilities at the University of Kentucky, be it resolved that the following accolades be expressed:
WHEREAS appreciation is expressed to M. Scott Smith for his welcome to the University of Kentucky and description of its mission and outreach.
WHEREAS we gratefully acknowledge the outstanding meals hosted by the College of Agriculture at the University of Kentucky.
WHEREAS appreciation is extended to Dennis TeKrony and colleagues for his attention to local detail.
WHEREAS we extend our continued appreciation to Dick Heimsch as administrative advisor for his assistance, guidance and contributions to the success of W-168 as well as his strong advocacy of W-168 objectives.
WHEREAS we extend our sincere appreciation to Dennis TeKrony for his adept leadership, friendly conduct of our meetings, attention, and providing social outings for the group.
WHEREAS we sincerely appreciate the outstanding service of Alan Taylor as Vice-Chair.
WHEREAS we appreciate the participation of Daniel Leskavor and his willingness to be nominated and elected as Secretary Elect.
THEREFORE be it resolved that the 2002 Regional Technical Committee Meeting has been an unqualified success by fostering the mutual exchange of ideas, improving our understanding of seeds, providing the focus for future research and promoting the importance of seed biology in a sustainable, environmentally compatible natural resource management and conservation agroecosystem.
W-168- Seed Biology, Technology, and Ecology
January 16-18, 2003
University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
Thursday, January 16, 2003
The rewrite committee met at 2:00p for discussion and work on the new proposal development.
Members gathered at the Sheraton Hotel at 5:30p for and informal discussion followed by dinner.
Friday, January 17, 2003
Dennis TeKrony, chair, welcomed the committee and others followed by a general introduction of members and visitors. He introduced the Assoc. Director of the Agriculture Experiment Station. A presentation of the Seed Biology program at the University of Kentucky was made.
Dr. M. Scott Smith, Dean and Director of Agriculture at the University of Kentucky, was introduced. He presented an overview of agriculture in the state and university. He noted the dramatic changes occurring as tobacco production is on the decline and the need to develop other areas in agriculture. The horse industry is now rated as the # 1 Agriculture industry in the state.
Dr. Richard Heimsch, Administrator Advisor, thanked the folks at the University of Kentucky for their support of these meetings. He then presented a brief overview of the seed biology project for the many new members and others. He noted that this was the 5th rewrite of the Seed Biology, Technology and Ecology program. May 15, 2003 is the date for completion of the rewrite of this project. It must be submitted prior to this date with a NIMSS site assigned so that members may go online and make corrections. Members must fill out Appendix E and send electronically to Richard Heimsch.
Dr. Michael Fitzner, USDA/CSREES/PAS is the new federal representative to this project. He will try to make next years meeting.
The rewrite committee was identified (Taylor Chair, Bradford, Welbaum, McDonald and Cohn) and they noted progress to date. Approximately 30 people have been identified who have an interest in the project. There have been 17 people who have contributed in the 4 identified areas. A handout detailing the title and 4 objectives was handed out. Those interested in participating need to submit by March 15 a one-page area of specific interests related to the 4 objectives.
A motion was made and seconded to pass the W-168 project proposal and was passed unanimously.
The committee then solicited nominations for secretary and secretary-elect. Harrison Hughes was elected as secretary and Daniel Leskovac (Texas A & M) as secretary-elect.
Next years meeting will be at the University of California-Davis and will be scheduled for mid-January 2004.
State Reports
Kent Bradford reported for California, Marc Cohn for Louisiana, and Harrison Hughes for Colorado. Bob Geneve, from Kentucky, talked about seed related work in Horticulture. Allen Knapp reported for Iowa, Daniel Leskovar for Texas, and Miller McDonald for Ohio. Mitch McGrath, USDA-ARS in Michigan, reported on work there.
Meeting adjourned for the day. The folks at University of Kentucky hosted an evening dinner at the campus faculty club.
Saturday, January 18.
The meeting started at 8:30a with report of seed work in Oregon by Hiro Nonogaki. Ralph Obendorf on work at Cornell, Ithaca while Alan Taylor reported on work at Geneva, New York. This was followed by a report by Greg Welbaum from Virginia.
The business part of the meeting was reconvened with a brief discussion of pertinent points on the upcoming completion of the current 5-year proposal and further words on the new proposal.
A brief discussion on outreach objectives ensued. Ralph Obendorf noted he has a mailing list on seed biology that he maintains. He volunteered to work with the W-168 members to set up a mailing list for the group. He requested that you e-mail him directly, rlo1@cornell.edu requesting your name be added to the list or subscribe via e-mailing directly to seed_biology_l@cornell.edu.
Discussion continued on upcoming meetings of various types. In 2005 there will be an International Seed Biology meeting in Australia. There is also a Seed Desiccation Conference in South Africa being organized by the ISSS.
A suggestion for a symposium was made. Al Taylor will appoint a subcommittee to prepare this as an item for discussion at the Davis meeting. It was also suggested that the committee organize a workshop for Seed Biology at the Plant and Animal Genome Meeting.
The next series of discussion points was about funding seed research. Topics discussed were American Seed Research Foundation, ASTA and funding through the federal government. It was suggested that the seed industry and the universities need to request that seed biology be an area for greater research funding. The possibility for special grants for cooperative research in seed biology was also discussed. Several members of the committee will pursue possibilities along these lines.
It was announced that Kent Bradford was this years recipient for the Seed Science Award.
Marc Cohn then gave a report on Seed Science Research. He noted that about 33% of papers submitted are accepted. About 1/3 is sent back to the authors because the topics are judged as outside the scope of the publication. He announced 2 new Associate Editors: Kent Bradford and Derek Bewley. Marc noted that the turnaround time from submittal to acceptance or rejection has been reduced. He also stated that on average the publications are cited 12 times per week.
The resolutions are attached. The meeting was adjourned at 12:00p.
Respectively submitted,
Harrison Hughes
Secretary
RESOLUTION
Because of the high quality of presentations and discussions evident in the 2002 W-168 Regional Technical Committee Meetings and whereas the participants were greatly enriched by the experience to visit the outstanding facilities at the University of Kentucky, be it resolved that the following accolades be expressed:
WHEREAS appreciation is expressed to M. Scott Smith for his welcome to the University of Kentucky and description of its mission and outreach.
WHEREAS we gratefully acknowledge the outstanding meals hosted by the College of Agriculture at the University of Kentucky.
WHEREAS appreciation is extended to Dennis TeKrony and colleagues for his attention to local detail.
WHEREAS we extend our continued appreciation to Dick Heimsch as administrative advisor for his assistance, guidance and contributions to the success of W-168 as well as his strong advocacy of W-168 objectives.
WHEREAS we extend our sincere appreciation to Dennis TeKrony for his adept leadership, friendly conduct of our meetings, attention, and providing social outings for the group.
WHEREAS we sincerely appreciate the outstanding service of Alan Taylor as Vice-Chair.
WHEREAS we appreciate the participation of Daniel Leskavor and his willingness to be nominated and elected as Secretary Elect.
THEREFORE be it resolved that the 2002 Regional Technical Committee Meeting has been an unqualified success by fostering the mutual exchange of ideas, improving our understanding of seeds, providing the focus for future research and promoting the importance of seed biology in a sustainable, environmentally compatible natural resource management and conservation agroecosystem.
Accomplishments
Accomplishments - 2002:
Elucidate fundamental mechanisms underlying seed development and germinability
CA - An additional germination-associated gene, xyloglucan endotransglycosylase, was shown to be expressed in the endosperm cap of tomato seeds prior to radicle emergence. The hydrothermal time model was extended to explain germination behavior in relation to minimum, optimum and maximum temperatures. Heat-shock protein expression was associated with post-priming treatments that extend seed longevity.
LA - 4-methyl pyrazole prevented the dormancy-breaking action of alcohols by inhibiting the conversion of the alcohol to its corresponding acid, rather than via generation of excessive concentrations of the alcohol that might inhibit germination
NY-I - Soybean seeds accumulate sucrose, raffinose, and stachyose and lesser amounts of galactopinitol A, galactopinitol B, and fagopyritol B1 in axis and cotyledon tissues as part of the seed maturation process. Soybean embryos are deficient in D-pinitol and galactopinitol biosynthesis. Feeding immature soybean zygotic embryos myo-inositol, D-pinitol, and/or D-chiro-inositol as free cyclitol substrates established the role of substrate availability and biochemical pathways for accumulation of galactosyl cyclitols in embryos during precocious maturation. Recombinant soybean galactinol synthase, heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli, catalyzed the biosynthesis of fagopyritol B1 and galactinol, but not galactopinitols. Conclusions: D-pinitol and D-chiro-inositol are transported from maternal tissues and not biosynthesized in the embryo, fagopyritols are biosynthesized by galactinol synthase, galactopinitols are biosynthesized by stachyose synthase or raffinose synthase, and galactopinitols, but not fagopyritol B1, may serve as galactosyl donors for stachyose biosynthesis.
OH - Soybean seed soluble carbohydrates include sugars and cyclitols, but the biological role of the latter in plant development is poorly understood, particularly during imbibition. Twelve soluble carbohydrates (including reducing sugars, sucrose, raffinose saccharides, free cyclitols and galactosyl cyclitols) were determine in soybean axes and cotyledons at five stages of seed development and six stages of imbibition. In both the axes and cotyledons, reducing sugars and free cyclitols decreased while sucrose, raffinose saccharides and galactosyl cyclitols accumulated with seed development. During imbibition, sucrose, raffinose saccardise and galactosyl cyclitols were degraded and an accumulation of reducing sugars and free cyclitols was observed. This study demonstrated that sugars and cyclitols occur in a similar fashion during soybean seed development and imbibition.
OR - The research on Arabidopsis seed was initiated using the enhancer-trap lines (Thomas Jack lines). Multiple pools that showed seed-specific glucuronidase (GUS) expression were isolated and seeds were produced from T4 generation individual plants. The lines with endosperm cap-specific and embryo-specific expression were characterized. The putative insertion sites of T-DNA are currently being identified by genome walk PCR.
VA - We have cloned and sequenced a putative dioxygenase from O. aegyptiaca with high homology to ACCase and a maximal expression on day 3 (at the peak of conditioning metabolic activity). Weve cloned the full-length cDNA of this gene, along with non-coding regions at both the 3 and 5 ends. This gene may be involved in the mechanisms that allow O. aegyptiaca to sense a signal from a potential host plant and germinate. Understanding germination of this parasitic weed seed will allow us to devise strategies to control to control it.
Develop methods for improving seeds as genetic delivery systems
IA - Following its official publication in the Federal Register in July 2001, the National Seed Health System began operation in 2002, with accreditation of five organizations. The administration unit for the NSHS at the Seed Science Center continued the development phase of the system in 2002, with many new seed health tests standardized. An auditing system was put place and utilized in the accreditation process. The NSHS website www.seedhealth.org was launched. The Phytosanitary Resolution component of the NSHS was implemented, with the production of Pest Risk Assessments for seed transmitted pathogens of vegetables. This document was used to meet Brazilian requirements for importation of exported vegetable seeds into that country. Three varieties of soybean seeds were dropped from different heights onto steel and seed-on-seed surfaces in two flow patterns (dribbling and mass flow). Results indicated that dribbling seeds reduced quality of seeds more than mass flow regardless of the landing surface. Dropping seeds onto hard surface reduced seed quality more than seed-on-seed impact. Dropping height and variety were major factors in inducing damage to soybean seeds during handling. Commercial corn was upgraded with a gravity table. Samples were collected at from the feed and four locations at the discharge edge of the gravity tables. Test weight, density, breakage susceptibility, and seed coat damage were significantly different for different samples. But, the chemical properties (starch, oil and protein content among samples were not different at 5% probability level. Practical methods of breaking dormancy in Eastern gamagrass (Tripsicum dactyloides) was sowing unstratified seed in the fall, while prechilled seeds are needed in the spring. Dormancy seems to involve the encompassing cupule and testa of the dispersal unit.
LA - New dormancy-breaking treatments for red rice grains were identified. Dormancy was broken by anthracene-9-carboxylic acid, hydrogen peroxide, or phenylarsine oxide. A simple cut test was developed to assay the viability of Spartina alterniflora grains.
NY-G - Factors limiting table beet seed germination were characterized as 1) a mucilaginous layer that surrounds the propagule, 2) the ovary cap tenacity and 3) the presence of phenolic chemical inhibitors. The mucilaginous layer was the primary factor responsible for non-synchronous germination, and seeds with mucilage were associated with greater concentration of phenolic compounds, and the mucilage compounded the deleterious effect of the ovary cap on germination rate.
Define the ecological interactions of seeds with their environment
KY - Phytotron studies have shown that high maximum temperatures (33 or 38 C for 10 hours daily) during seed development (R5 to R8) can reduce seed soybean quality. Diurnal cycles of 38/27 and 33/22 C (~ 2 h at high temperature) reduced seed size, increased shriveled seeds and lowered overall seed quality compared to the control at 27/22 C. Even normal, spherical seeds without visible abnormalities had unacceptable seed germination (38/27 C) and vigor (accelerated ageing and conductivity tests) at 33/22 and 38/27 C .
OR - Trinexepac-ethyl (TE), an inhibitor of the 3-hydroxylation of GA20 to GA1 increased seed yield in creeping red fescue by 40% or more. TE effects on seed yield were similar whether the crop residue was managed after harvest by burning or by non-thermal means. Seed yield was improved by TE as a result of increased conversion of florets to seed. Loss of seed due to shattering before harvest is one of the major causes of low and unpredictable seed yields in grasses. The effect of aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG) on seed shattering and plant maturity in vernalization-insensitive clones of perennial ryegrass was dependent on the stage of plant development at the time of application. AVG reduced seed shattering and delayed maturity, especially when the application was made after emergence of the inflorescence.
Plans for 2002: Efforts are focused on the five year project rewrite. Six new PIs will join the project since the current project started in 1998: H. Hughes (CO), W. Pill (DE), M. McGrath (MI)., P. Meints (MS), K.Kosters (SD) and D. Leskovar (TX). The new objectives are: 1) Determine the influence of pre-harvest stress on seed quality, 2) Identify the biophysical, biochemical and genetic factors governing seed desiccation tolerance and longevity 3) Identify genes associated with seed development, germination, vigor and dormancy 4) develop technologies to assess seed quality, improve seed performance and enhance seed utilization.
Elucidate fundamental mechanisms underlying seed development and germinability
CA - An additional germination-associated gene, xyloglucan endotransglycosylase, was shown to be expressed in the endosperm cap of tomato seeds prior to radicle emergence. The hydrothermal time model was extended to explain germination behavior in relation to minimum, optimum and maximum temperatures. Heat-shock protein expression was associated with post-priming treatments that extend seed longevity.
LA - 4-methyl pyrazole prevented the dormancy-breaking action of alcohols by inhibiting the conversion of the alcohol to its corresponding acid, rather than via generation of excessive concentrations of the alcohol that might inhibit germination
NY-I - Soybean seeds accumulate sucrose, raffinose, and stachyose and lesser amounts of galactopinitol A, galactopinitol B, and fagopyritol B1 in axis and cotyledon tissues as part of the seed maturation process. Soybean embryos are deficient in D-pinitol and galactopinitol biosynthesis. Feeding immature soybean zygotic embryos myo-inositol, D-pinitol, and/or D-chiro-inositol as free cyclitol substrates established the role of substrate availability and biochemical pathways for accumulation of galactosyl cyclitols in embryos during precocious maturation. Recombinant soybean galactinol synthase, heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli, catalyzed the biosynthesis of fagopyritol B1 and galactinol, but not galactopinitols. Conclusions: D-pinitol and D-chiro-inositol are transported from maternal tissues and not biosynthesized in the embryo, fagopyritols are biosynthesized by galactinol synthase, galactopinitols are biosynthesized by stachyose synthase or raffinose synthase, and galactopinitols, but not fagopyritol B1, may serve as galactosyl donors for stachyose biosynthesis.
OH - Soybean seed soluble carbohydrates include sugars and cyclitols, but the biological role of the latter in plant development is poorly understood, particularly during imbibition. Twelve soluble carbohydrates (including reducing sugars, sucrose, raffinose saccharides, free cyclitols and galactosyl cyclitols) were determine in soybean axes and cotyledons at five stages of seed development and six stages of imbibition. In both the axes and cotyledons, reducing sugars and free cyclitols decreased while sucrose, raffinose saccharides and galactosyl cyclitols accumulated with seed development. During imbibition, sucrose, raffinose saccardise and galactosyl cyclitols were degraded and an accumulation of reducing sugars and free cyclitols was observed. This study demonstrated that sugars and cyclitols occur in a similar fashion during soybean seed development and imbibition.
OR - The research on Arabidopsis seed was initiated using the enhancer-trap lines (Thomas Jack lines). Multiple pools that showed seed-specific glucuronidase (GUS) expression were isolated and seeds were produced from T4 generation individual plants. The lines with endosperm cap-specific and embryo-specific expression were characterized. The putative insertion sites of T-DNA are currently being identified by genome walk PCR.
VA - We have cloned and sequenced a putative dioxygenase from O. aegyptiaca with high homology to ACCase and a maximal expression on day 3 (at the peak of conditioning metabolic activity). Weve cloned the full-length cDNA of this gene, along with non-coding regions at both the 3 and 5 ends. This gene may be involved in the mechanisms that allow O. aegyptiaca to sense a signal from a potential host plant and germinate. Understanding germination of this parasitic weed seed will allow us to devise strategies to control to control it.
Develop methods for improving seeds as genetic delivery systems
IA - Following its official publication in the Federal Register in July 2001, the National Seed Health System began operation in 2002, with accreditation of five organizations. The administration unit for the NSHS at the Seed Science Center continued the development phase of the system in 2002, with many new seed health tests standardized. An auditing system was put place and utilized in the accreditation process. The NSHS website www.seedhealth.org was launched. The Phytosanitary Resolution component of the NSHS was implemented, with the production of Pest Risk Assessments for seed transmitted pathogens of vegetables. This document was used to meet Brazilian requirements for importation of exported vegetable seeds into that country. Three varieties of soybean seeds were dropped from different heights onto steel and seed-on-seed surfaces in two flow patterns (dribbling and mass flow). Results indicated that dribbling seeds reduced quality of seeds more than mass flow regardless of the landing surface. Dropping seeds onto hard surface reduced seed quality more than seed-on-seed impact. Dropping height and variety were major factors in inducing damage to soybean seeds during handling. Commercial corn was upgraded with a gravity table. Samples were collected at from the feed and four locations at the discharge edge of the gravity tables. Test weight, density, breakage susceptibility, and seed coat damage were significantly different for different samples. But, the chemical properties (starch, oil and protein content among samples were not different at 5% probability level. Practical methods of breaking dormancy in Eastern gamagrass (Tripsicum dactyloides) was sowing unstratified seed in the fall, while prechilled seeds are needed in the spring. Dormancy seems to involve the encompassing cupule and testa of the dispersal unit.
LA - New dormancy-breaking treatments for red rice grains were identified. Dormancy was broken by anthracene-9-carboxylic acid, hydrogen peroxide, or phenylarsine oxide. A simple cut test was developed to assay the viability of Spartina alterniflora grains.
NY-G - Factors limiting table beet seed germination were characterized as 1) a mucilaginous layer that surrounds the propagule, 2) the ovary cap tenacity and 3) the presence of phenolic chemical inhibitors. The mucilaginous layer was the primary factor responsible for non-synchronous germination, and seeds with mucilage were associated with greater concentration of phenolic compounds, and the mucilage compounded the deleterious effect of the ovary cap on germination rate.
Define the ecological interactions of seeds with their environment
KY - Phytotron studies have shown that high maximum temperatures (33 or 38 C for 10 hours daily) during seed development (R5 to R8) can reduce seed soybean quality. Diurnal cycles of 38/27 and 33/22 C (~ 2 h at high temperature) reduced seed size, increased shriveled seeds and lowered overall seed quality compared to the control at 27/22 C. Even normal, spherical seeds without visible abnormalities had unacceptable seed germination (38/27 C) and vigor (accelerated ageing and conductivity tests) at 33/22 and 38/27 C .
OR - Trinexepac-ethyl (TE), an inhibitor of the 3-hydroxylation of GA20 to GA1 increased seed yield in creeping red fescue by 40% or more. TE effects on seed yield were similar whether the crop residue was managed after harvest by burning or by non-thermal means. Seed yield was improved by TE as a result of increased conversion of florets to seed. Loss of seed due to shattering before harvest is one of the major causes of low and unpredictable seed yields in grasses. The effect of aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG) on seed shattering and plant maturity in vernalization-insensitive clones of perennial ryegrass was dependent on the stage of plant development at the time of application. AVG reduced seed shattering and delayed maturity, especially when the application was made after emergence of the inflorescence.
Plans for 2002: Efforts are focused on the five year project rewrite. Six new PIs will join the project since the current project started in 1998: H. Hughes (CO), W. Pill (DE), M. McGrath (MI)., P. Meints (MS), K.Kosters (SD) and D. Leskovar (TX). The new objectives are: 1) Determine the influence of pre-harvest stress on seed quality, 2) Identify the biophysical, biochemical and genetic factors governing seed desiccation tolerance and longevity 3) Identify genes associated with seed development, germination, vigor and dormancy 4) develop technologies to assess seed quality, improve seed performance and enhance seed utilization.
Impacts
- The National Seed Health System has now accredited five organizations. The NSHS website provides public access to standardized seed health methods.
- The study of seed-on-seed impact provides management practices for reducing damage to soybean seed during conveying. The gravity table separation of corn will provide a new way of improving the quality of US grain.
- Membranes are not the primary targets for the dormancy-breaking action of alcohols
- Understanding factors limiting germination of beet seeds was used to develop seed enhancements that improved stand establishment and yield.
- Expanded utilization of eastern gamagrass will expand grower choices in warm season grass pastures, provide excellent wildlife habitat, be useful in land reclamation, productive grass alleyways, and perhaps act as a silage replacement for corn on marginal and slopping lands. This research, if successful, will increase producer flexibility in marketing and managing seed supplies.
Publications
Adam, K and M.Misra. 2002. Effect of dropping height, flow pattern and landing surface on mechanical damage to soybean seeds, paper # MC02-101, presented in the 2002 Mid-central meeting of the American Society of Agricultural Engineers.
Alvarado, V., and Bradford, K.J. 2002. A hydrothermal time model explains the cardinal temperatures for seed germination. Plant, Cell and Environ. 25: 1061-1069.
Bradford, K.J. 2002. Applications of hydrothermal time to quantifying and modeling seed germination and dormancy. Weed Sci. 50: 248260.
Bradford, K.J., and Bewley, J.D. 2002. Seeds: Biology, Technology and Role in Agriculture. Chapter 9 in M.J. Chrispeels and D.E. Sadava, eds., Plants, Genes and Crop Biotechnology, 2nd Edition, Jones and Bartlett, Boston, pp. 210-239.
Chastain, T.G. 2002. The art and science of seed production in the Pacific Northwest. 128 pages. (Self-published book).
Chastain, T.G, C.J. Garbacik, W.C. Young III, and T.B Silberstein. 2002. Row spacing and grass seed yield in the Willamette Valley. In W.C. Young III (ed.) Seed Production. Crop Sci. Ext. Rep. 121:56-59.
Chastain, T.G., W.C. Young III, C.J. Garbacik, and T.B. Silberstein. 2002. Palisade and stand age effects on seed yield in perennial ryegrass. In W.C. Young III (ed.) Seed Production. Crop Sci. Ext. Rep. 121:15-16.
Chen F, Nonogaki H, Bradford, KJ. 2002. A gibberellin-regulated xyloglucan endotransglycosylase gene is expressed in the endosperm cap during tomato seed germination. J Exp Bot 367: 1-9
Cohn, M.A. (2002) Seed dormancy in red rice. A balance of logic and luck. Weed Science 50, 261-266.
Gurusinghe, S; Powell, A.L.T., and Bradford, K.J. 2002. Enhanced expression of BiP is associated with treatments that extend storage longevity of primed tomato seeds. J. Amer. Soc. Hortic. Sci. 127: 528-534.
Hamman, B. , D.B. Egli, and G. Koning. 2002. Seed vigor, soilborne pathogens, preemergent growth, and soybean seedling emergence. Crop Sci.42: 451-457.
Hartmann, H.T., D.E. Kester, F. T. Davies, Jr., and R. L. Geneve. 2002. Hartmann and Kesters Plant Propagation: Principles and Practices. Prentice-Hall, Inc., Seventh edition.
Koning, Gwen, D. M. TeKrony, T. Pfieffer and S.A. Ghabrial. 2002. Influence of soybean mosaic virus (SMV) resistance gene (Rsv1) on Phomopsis spp. seed infection, in an aphid-free environment. Crop Science 42: 178-185.
Kuhar, T. P., L. J. Stivers-Young, M. P. Hoffmann, and A. G. Taylor. 2002. Control of corn flea beetle and Stewart‘s wilt in sweet corn with imidacloprid and thiamethoxam seed treatments. Crop Protection 21: 25-31.
Kwong, F., Stodolski, L., Mari, J., Gurusinghe, S.H. and Bradford, K.J. 2001. Viability constants for delphinium and salvia seeds. Seed Technol. 23: 113-125.
Lemke, B. M., L. R. Gibson, A.D. Knapp, P. M. Dixon, K.J. Moore, and R. Hintz. 2003. Maximizing seed production in eastern gamagrass. Crop Sci. 95:863-869.
McDonald, M. B. 2002. A philosophy of dormancy testing in native species. Seed Technology 24:26-36.
McDonald, M.B. and S. Contreras (editors). 2002. Seeds: Trade, Production and Technology. Intern. Seminar Proceedings, Pontifica Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
McGee, D,C, 2002 The National Seed Health System. 38th Illinois Corn School, pp 72-76.
Modarresi, R., M. Rucker and D. M. TeKrony. 2002. Accelerated ageing test for comparing wheat seed vigour. Seed Science and Technology 30: 683-687.
Modi, A. T., M. B. McDonald and J. G. Streeter. 2002. Soybean seed development and germination share related events of soluble carbohydrate occurrence at similar in situ water status. Can. J. Bot. 80:262-270.
Obendorf, R. L. and M. Horbowicz. 2002. Preparation of fagopyritols and uses therefor. United States Patent Number 6,492,341. Date of Patent: December 10, 2002. 49 pages.
Paine, D. H., T. Repo and A. G. Taylor. 2001. Noninvasive seed quality test by impedance spectrum analysis. Seed Technology 187-196.
Repo, T., D. H. Paine and A. G. Taylor. 2002. Electrical impedance spectroscopy in relation to seed viability and moisture content. Seed Sci. Research 12: 17-29.
Silberstein, T.B, W.C. Young III, T.G. Chastain, and C.J. Garbacik. 2002. Response of cool season grasses to foliar applications of Palisade (trinexapac-ethyl) plant growth regulator, 2001. In W.C. Young III (ed.) Seed Production. Crop Sci. Ext. Rep. 121:9-14.
Silberstein, T.B., W.C. Young III, T.G. Chastain, and C.J. Garbacik. 2002. Response of cool season grasses to foliar applications of Apogee (prohexamide-calcium) plant growth regulator, 2001. In W.C. Young III (ed.) Seed Production. Crop Sci. Ext. Rep. 121:18-21.
Sundstrom, F.J., Williams, J., Van Deynze, A., and Bradford, K.J. 2002. Identity preservation of agricultural commodities. University of California, Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Agricultural Biotechnology in California Series, Publication 8077.
Suslow, T.V., B.R. Thomas and K.J. Bradford. 2002. Biotechnology provides new tools for plant breeding. University of California, Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Agricultural Biotechnology in California Series, Publication 8043.
TeKrony, D. M. 2002. REVIEW: Precision is an essential component of seed vigour testing. Seed Science and Technology (31:435-447).
Thomas, B.R., Van Deynze, A., and Bradford, K.J. 2002. Production of therapeutic proteins in plants. University of California, Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Agricultural Biotechnology in California Series, Publication 8078
Tian, X., A.D. Knapp, L.R. Gibson, R. Struthers, K.J. Moore, E.C. Brummer,. And T.B. Bailey. 2003. Response of eastern gamagrass seed to gibberellic acid buffered below its pKa. Crop Sci. 43:927-933.
Young III, W.C, T.B. Silberstein, T.G. Chastain, and C.J. Garbacik. 2002. Grass seed production in Oregon: challenges and opportunities. Proc. West. Plant Growth Regulators Soc. 14:3-6.
Young III, W.C, M.E. Mellbye, G.A. Gingrich, T.B. Silberstein, T.G. Chastain, and J.M. Hart. 2002. Defining optimum nitrogen fertilization practices for fine fescue and annual ryegrass seed production systems in the Willamette Valley. In W.C. Young III (ed.) Seed Production. Crop Sci. Ext. Rep. 121:1-5.
Zou X-H, Nonogaki H, Welbaum GE. 2002. A gel diffusion assay for visualization and quantification of chitinase activity. Molecular Biotechnology
Alvarado, V., and Bradford, K.J. 2002. A hydrothermal time model explains the cardinal temperatures for seed germination. Plant, Cell and Environ. 25: 1061-1069.
Bradford, K.J. 2002. Applications of hydrothermal time to quantifying and modeling seed germination and dormancy. Weed Sci. 50: 248260.
Bradford, K.J., and Bewley, J.D. 2002. Seeds: Biology, Technology and Role in Agriculture. Chapter 9 in M.J. Chrispeels and D.E. Sadava, eds., Plants, Genes and Crop Biotechnology, 2nd Edition, Jones and Bartlett, Boston, pp. 210-239.
Chastain, T.G. 2002. The art and science of seed production in the Pacific Northwest. 128 pages. (Self-published book).
Chastain, T.G, C.J. Garbacik, W.C. Young III, and T.B Silberstein. 2002. Row spacing and grass seed yield in the Willamette Valley. In W.C. Young III (ed.) Seed Production. Crop Sci. Ext. Rep. 121:56-59.
Chastain, T.G., W.C. Young III, C.J. Garbacik, and T.B. Silberstein. 2002. Palisade and stand age effects on seed yield in perennial ryegrass. In W.C. Young III (ed.) Seed Production. Crop Sci. Ext. Rep. 121:15-16.
Chen F, Nonogaki H, Bradford, KJ. 2002. A gibberellin-regulated xyloglucan endotransglycosylase gene is expressed in the endosperm cap during tomato seed germination. J Exp Bot 367: 1-9
Cohn, M.A. (2002) Seed dormancy in red rice. A balance of logic and luck. Weed Science 50, 261-266.
Gurusinghe, S; Powell, A.L.T., and Bradford, K.J. 2002. Enhanced expression of BiP is associated with treatments that extend storage longevity of primed tomato seeds. J. Amer. Soc. Hortic. Sci. 127: 528-534.
Hamman, B. , D.B. Egli, and G. Koning. 2002. Seed vigor, soilborne pathogens, preemergent growth, and soybean seedling emergence. Crop Sci.42: 451-457.
Hartmann, H.T., D.E. Kester, F. T. Davies, Jr., and R. L. Geneve. 2002. Hartmann and Kesters Plant Propagation: Principles and Practices. Prentice-Hall, Inc., Seventh edition.
Koning, Gwen, D. M. TeKrony, T. Pfieffer and S.A. Ghabrial. 2002. Influence of soybean mosaic virus (SMV) resistance gene (Rsv1) on Phomopsis spp. seed infection, in an aphid-free environment. Crop Science 42: 178-185.
Kuhar, T. P., L. J. Stivers-Young, M. P. Hoffmann, and A. G. Taylor. 2002. Control of corn flea beetle and Stewart‘s wilt in sweet corn with imidacloprid and thiamethoxam seed treatments. Crop Protection 21: 25-31.
Kwong, F., Stodolski, L., Mari, J., Gurusinghe, S.H. and Bradford, K.J. 2001. Viability constants for delphinium and salvia seeds. Seed Technol. 23: 113-125.
Lemke, B. M., L. R. Gibson, A.D. Knapp, P. M. Dixon, K.J. Moore, and R. Hintz. 2003. Maximizing seed production in eastern gamagrass. Crop Sci. 95:863-869.
McDonald, M. B. 2002. A philosophy of dormancy testing in native species. Seed Technology 24:26-36.
McDonald, M.B. and S. Contreras (editors). 2002. Seeds: Trade, Production and Technology. Intern. Seminar Proceedings, Pontifica Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
McGee, D,C, 2002 The National Seed Health System. 38th Illinois Corn School, pp 72-76.
Modarresi, R., M. Rucker and D. M. TeKrony. 2002. Accelerated ageing test for comparing wheat seed vigour. Seed Science and Technology 30: 683-687.
Modi, A. T., M. B. McDonald and J. G. Streeter. 2002. Soybean seed development and germination share related events of soluble carbohydrate occurrence at similar in situ water status. Can. J. Bot. 80:262-270.
Obendorf, R. L. and M. Horbowicz. 2002. Preparation of fagopyritols and uses therefor. United States Patent Number 6,492,341. Date of Patent: December 10, 2002. 49 pages.
Paine, D. H., T. Repo and A. G. Taylor. 2001. Noninvasive seed quality test by impedance spectrum analysis. Seed Technology 187-196.
Repo, T., D. H. Paine and A. G. Taylor. 2002. Electrical impedance spectroscopy in relation to seed viability and moisture content. Seed Sci. Research 12: 17-29.
Silberstein, T.B, W.C. Young III, T.G. Chastain, and C.J. Garbacik. 2002. Response of cool season grasses to foliar applications of Palisade (trinexapac-ethyl) plant growth regulator, 2001. In W.C. Young III (ed.) Seed Production. Crop Sci. Ext. Rep. 121:9-14.
Silberstein, T.B., W.C. Young III, T.G. Chastain, and C.J. Garbacik. 2002. Response of cool season grasses to foliar applications of Apogee (prohexamide-calcium) plant growth regulator, 2001. In W.C. Young III (ed.) Seed Production. Crop Sci. Ext. Rep. 121:18-21.
Sundstrom, F.J., Williams, J., Van Deynze, A., and Bradford, K.J. 2002. Identity preservation of agricultural commodities. University of California, Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Agricultural Biotechnology in California Series, Publication 8077.
Suslow, T.V., B.R. Thomas and K.J. Bradford. 2002. Biotechnology provides new tools for plant breeding. University of California, Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Agricultural Biotechnology in California Series, Publication 8043.
TeKrony, D. M. 2002. REVIEW: Precision is an essential component of seed vigour testing. Seed Science and Technology (31:435-447).
Thomas, B.R., Van Deynze, A., and Bradford, K.J. 2002. Production of therapeutic proteins in plants. University of California, Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Agricultural Biotechnology in California Series, Publication 8078
Tian, X., A.D. Knapp, L.R. Gibson, R. Struthers, K.J. Moore, E.C. Brummer,. And T.B. Bailey. 2003. Response of eastern gamagrass seed to gibberellic acid buffered below its pKa. Crop Sci. 43:927-933.
Young III, W.C, T.B. Silberstein, T.G. Chastain, and C.J. Garbacik. 2002. Grass seed production in Oregon: challenges and opportunities. Proc. West. Plant Growth Regulators Soc. 14:3-6.
Young III, W.C, M.E. Mellbye, G.A. Gingrich, T.B. Silberstein, T.G. Chastain, and J.M. Hart. 2002. Defining optimum nitrogen fertilization practices for fine fescue and annual ryegrass seed production systems in the Willamette Valley. In W.C. Young III (ed.) Seed Production. Crop Sci. Ext. Rep. 121:1-5.
Zou X-H, Nonogaki H, Welbaum GE. 2002. A gel diffusion assay for visualization and quantification of chitinase activity. Molecular Biotechnology