Morphological aspects of seed, germination and storage of Pitcairnia albiflos (Bromeliaceae)

Despite the ecological importance of Bromeliaceae and the threat of extinction for many species. the literature regarding seed germination and ex situ conservation of these species is scarce. The morphology of Pitcairnia albinos (Bromeliaceae) seeds and post-seminal development was studied and its germination response investigated in relation to temperature. light quality and desiccation tolerance at -196 degrees C. The seeds are elliptical and the seedlings are cryptocotylar. Seeds germinated only at 20, 25 and 30 degrees C. and failed to germinate at temperatures low as higher than this or at an alternating temperature. P. albiflos requires light for maximum seed germination and did not germinate in low red/far red (0.03) or dark. Seeds desiccated to 5-7% water content at -196 degrees C maintained their viability and vigour for 365 days. Storage of seeds at ultra-low water content (ca. 3%) had a detrimental effect on seed longevity. Our results suggest orthodox storage behaviour for seeds of P. albinos, since they are able to survive desiccation and freezing.