Deterioration of Lentil Seeds: Studies on Germination and Vigour in Relation to Membrane Leakiness and Lipid Peroxidation

Accelerated ageing of seeds of lentil led to a significant decline in seed viability and seedling vigour. The same is true for controlled aged seeds (14% moisture content) stored at ambient and ±25°C temperatures. Under controlled ageing, no damage to normal germination and vigour was observed in seeds stored up to 90 days at ± 4°C, 60 days at −10°C and 30 days at −20°C temperatures. Increased electrical conductance, inorganic phosphate content, UV absorbancy of leachate, and lipid peroxidation accompanied seed deterioration which can be used as markers. These changes associated with ageing, are interpreted as results due to membrane deterioration.