Unlocking seed germination potential through storage in desert flora: implications for restoration

Abstract

Seed banking is an important strategy for ex situ conservation. In deserts, it supports restoration where seed production is variable and unpredictable. Effective seed storage requires an understanding of seed maturation, germination ecology and storage behaviour. This study assesses long term storage potential of 13 ecologically and economically important native Arabian desert species. Freshly collected and seeds stored for 4 years at 4°C were tested under light and dark regimes at 30/20 °C. The germination rate was significantly greater (except for Pennisetum divisum) in the 4-year-old seeds than in the fresh seeds. The species showed variations in terms of photoblastic response. Photoblastic responses also shifted after storage, suggesting that many species exhibit adaptive dormancy release mechanisms. Mean Germination Time (MGT) of the selected species showed a mixed response to storage. The germination synchrony (SYN) and germination of most species increased after storage. Seed mortality remained low after storage, suggesting high storage tolerance. The findings suggest orthodox seed characteristics of the species. They can be stored under simple, low-temperature conditions without losing viability. The study provides valuable insights for seed banking, species selection, restoration and long-term conservation initiatives for ecological restoration projects in arid ecosystems.