Germination responses of Jatropha curcas L. seeds to storage and aging

The present study investigated the effects of storage and aging on seed germination and seedling vigor in Jatropha curcas seeds, an oilseed plant with great potential for biodiesel production. Seeds were collected in 2009 and 2010 and stored under either room temperature or refrigerator conditions for 3, 6, 9 or 12 months. Analyses of seed germination and vigor, seed reserves and several biochemical factors were conducted in the stored seeds. We show that Jatropha seeds have a short viability period (less than 6 months) and that the increase of storage temperature accelerates the loss of seed germination potential. The loss of seed viability is due to metabolism of the seed itself, which remains active even under low levels of water and consumes the reserves of the seeds. Therefore, seeds stored for long periods demonstrated a marked decrease in their levels of starch and soluble proteins. Moreover, the presence of a high concentration of reducing sugars leads to the glycosylation of proteins and then lipid peroxidation, which increases the electrolyte leakage and subsequently causes extensive embryo damage or deterioration. These data are of great importance for decision making regarding the allocation of a particular seed lot, as they will directly influence the possibility of seed storage.

► We access the germination of Jatropha curcas seeds, an oilseed plant, a source of biodiesel, after different aging methods.
► We found that the J. curcas seeds not withstand storage, independent of temperatures at which it was processed.
► The germination rate is strongly and significantly increased after a few months of seed storage.
► The content of food reserves in the seeds is strongly affected by storage.
► Low germination and high germination rate reinforce the recommendation of do not seed storage.