Dosimetry and radio-stimulation in mesquite (Neltuma laevigata W.) seeds

Resumen

Objective: To carry out research focused on the germination response of mesquite (Neltuma laevigata) to different doses of gamma radiation (Cobalt 60), in order to obtain a higher germination response than with a non-irradiated seed.

Design/Methodology/Approach: Seeds had different collection times and identities. One set was collected in Durango (10 years) and another in Hidalgo (2 months). Both sets were exposed to sixteen different doses of gamma radiation and a control (non-irradiated); they were subsequently subjected to in vitro conditions using a Murashige and Skoog basal medium. They were monitored daily for two weeks in order to develop an accurate record of their germination.

Results: The best treatment for the radio-stimulation of germination in the Durango set was observed at 30 gray (12% higher than the control). Meanwhile, the Hidalgo set received 6 gray radiation (56% higher than the control).

Study Limitations/Implications: Only two different populations were evaluated for this study. Given the differences found between them, working with material from other origins would be ideal.

Findings/Conclusions: Low doses of gamma radiation cause an increase in the germination rate of seeds.