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Abstract: Cordia trichotoma (Vell.) Arrab. ex Steud. is a forest species native to Brazil, naturally propagated by seeds, whose quality assessment may be underestimated by the use of inappropriate methods for conducting the germination test. Given the potential use of this plant and the importance of conserving native species, the present work aimed to study parameters for conducting the germination test in louro-pardo seeds, during three consecutive years of evaluations. For this purpose, temperatures (20, 25 and 30 °C) and substrates (blotter paper, filter paper, sand and vermiculite) were tested in seeds collected in different crop seasons. The tests were carried out under a completely randomized experimental design, with four replications, in a factorial scheme for the germination test (temperatures x substrates), with the data obtained being subjected to analysis of variance and means compared by Tukey’s test (p ≤ 0.05). Germination percentage and speed index were determined, and seed health analysis was performed. It is concluded that the germination test for louro-pardo seeds should be carried out between vermiculite, at 30 °C, without light supply, with the first count carried out at 26 days and the last count at 48 days after setting up the test.

ABSTRACT: The species Pinus taeda is largely used in intensive silviculture worldwide. This species has propagation through seeds, which requires determining seeds viability for their commercialization. The germination test recommended for this species usually requires up to 63 days to provide results on the quality of freshly harvested seeds, delaying commercialization and favoring contamination during the conduction of the test. The authors of this study aimed to establish the developmental stages of P. taeda seedlings to determine a criterion for interpreting the germination test with greater speed and efficiency to obtain results. The seeds were sown in transparent plastic boxes on two sheets of blotting paper and placed in a germinator at 22 °C with constant lighting. Five morphological stages of seedling development were defined with daily counts of the number of normal seedlings for each criterion, distribution in time, and the accumulated percentage of normal seedlings adjusted to time-to-event nonlinear regression. The new interpretation criterion proposed in this study is efficient, and P. taeda seedlings can be considered normal when cotyledon leaves differ by approximately 3 mm between the integument and hypocotyl, reducing the time to conduct the germination test by up to ten days compared to the criterion usually used in the routine analysis of seed laboratories.

ABSTRACT: Prior to commercialization, seeds of peach palm (Bactris gasipaes Kunth) have to undergo the germination test, whose well-established methodology takes 120 days. Due to their recalcitrant behavior, the seeds have short longevity when stored (around 30-45 days), which makes it challenging to select the most viable ones for marketing. This study aimed to determine a methodology for the tetrazolium test to be carried out in peach palm seeds, in order to fast deliver results that can be correlated to the germination test. Different forms of pre-conditioning, preparation, and staining were investigated via moisture content, germination, and tetrazolium tests, so as to define the vital parts of the seed and sort out the viability classes. For the seed lot under study, the tetrazolium test delivered results supported by the germination test when the following procedures were adopted: pre-conditioning by water submersion (20 °C for 24 h), longitudinal cut adjacent to the embryo, and half-seed immersion (embryo + endosperm) in a 1.0% tetrazolium solution for 4 h at 30 °C. Having fulfilled these criteria, it became possible to separate the peach palm seeds into two classes (viable or non-viable).

ABSTRACT Eucalyptus cloeziana is one of the highest-density wood species offering significant added value, frequently used in the construction and furniture industries. Despite its suitability, it may be overlooked on account of its propagation difficulties due either to its low rooting cutting capacity or to its seeds having a low germination rate perhaps attributable to the high proportion of indistinguishable impurities within the seed lots. This study aimed to develop an efficient technique for Eucalyptus cloeziana seed processing to increase the physical purity and, consequently, the physiological quality of the seed lot. Three seed lots, separated by size in sieves with 1.18, 1.00, and 0.84 mm square openings, were used. X-ray analyses were carried out, the number of normal seedlings and germination rate identified and the percentage and speed of seedling emergence under greenhouse conditions ascertained. The greenhouse evaluation showed that the seed retained in the 1.18 mm sieve presented viability and vigor twice that of the control. Therefore, the processing technique by size classification is efficient in terms of improving the physical and physiological performance of Eucalyptus cloeziana seed lots.

Abstract: The objective of this work was to determine the relationship of the morphological and physiological characteristics of guanandi (Calophyllum brasiliense) fruit and seeds with ripening and harvesting time. The reproductive cycle of a native plant population, located in the coast of the state of Paraná, Brazil, was monitored from anthesis until fruit dispersion, during three years. Monthly harvests were performed, and the morphological and physical aspects (color, size, dry mass, and moisture content) of fruit and embryos were evaluated, as well as the physiological ones (germination and vigor) of seeds. The ripening process of guanandi seeds occurred between 200 and 240 days after anthesis (DAA), with anthesis peak in February and fruit dispersion in October. The maximum dry matter mass accumulation was not synchronized with the maximum physiological potential of the seeds. Germination potential was reached close to the middle of the maturation process, and maximum vigor at the end of the cycle. Fruit external color did not change from 110 DAA onwards. The morphological characteristics related to harvesting time are fruit pulp and embryo weakly adherent to the endocarp and to the tegument, respectively, as well as the dark-brown color of these tissues.

ABSTRACT Generalized linear models (GLMs) are an extension of the linear model and include the normal, Poisson, and negative binomial distributions. Although GLMs were introduced in 1972, most seed technology studies, especially those involving count data, such as germination tests of seeds from the genus Eucalyptus, still using the analysis of variance, without analysis of the fit of other models. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the most appropriate model in the GLM class for seed count data of Eucalyptus cloeziana. Data were obtained from a germination test using seeds from three lots of E. cloeziana. Each lot was separated by sieving into three material fractions based on size: small (1.18 mm). The data analysis was based on the use of GLMs adjusted to normal, Poisson, and negative binomial distributions, and the models were evaluated by the Akaike and Bayesian Schwartz criteria and Cook’s distance and half-normal diagnostic graphs. Compared to other adjustments, the normal distribution adjustment differed in the configuration of means submitted to the Tukey test, and although the data met all normality assumptions, the adjustment with the Poisson distribution was the most suitable for the count data from a germination test of E. cloeziana seeds.

Abstract: The objective of this work was to evaluate preparation and staining methods used in the tetrazolium test for Pinus taeda seeds, with the definition of viability classes. The procedures carried out were those described in the rules for seed testing in Brazil and Association of Official Seed Analysts, as well as an alternative method for the tetrazolium test. For each procedure, different combinations of types of seed cuts, concentrations of tetrazolium salt, and exposure periods were used. The test conducted with the alternative procedure (longitudinal cut adjacent to the embryo and staining of only the half with the embryo) is the most practical. The obtained results allowed classifying seeds into two different viability classes (viable and nonviable), and 0.2% tetrazolium salt for 4 hours is the most effective combination.

Araucaria angustifolia is a species of ecological and social-economic importance in the southern Brazil region, but it is at risk of extinction. Its seeds are classified as recalcitrant, requiring storage under controlled temperature and humidity to obtain greater longevity. Another aspect is the seed health quality, which is impaired by high seed moisture content that causes fungus proliferation and may reduce germination and seedling quality. The objective of this study was to evaluate the physiological and sanitary quality of araucaria seeds treated with 0.5, 1 and 3 % of sodium hypochlorite (NaClO) and stored at different periods (2, 4, 6, 8 and 12 months). The seed quality was evaluated by germination, vigor and seed health tests. The disinfection of seeds, regardless of the concentration used, temporarily delayed the seed germinations, but did not negatively affect seedling emergence. After 12 months of storage, the seeds showed infection by Schizophyllum commune , which caused the reduction of the germination. The seeds treated with NaClO showed lower fungal incidence, especially Schizophyllum commune , ensuring the seed health quality during storage for 12 months. The treatment with NaClO positively favors the physiological quality of Araucaria seeds that will be stored for a period exceeding four months.

ABSTRACT Vernonanthura discolor is a native species with potential for reclamation of degraded lands, and the manufacture of wood panels. This study has aimed to evaluate the process of maturation and germination of Vernonanthura discolor seeds, determining the harvest time, and conducting the germination test. A periodic monitoring of the reproductive development of sources of Vernonanthura discolor was conducted, located in the municipality of Bocaiúva do Sul, PR, Brazil; and starting from the anthesis, weekly collections of seeds were performed to evaluate the percentage of dry matter, germinating power, and vigor, in order to identify the physiological maturity of the seeds. In the germination test, two combinations of four temperatures (20, 30, 20-30 and 30 °C), and two light regimes were tested, seeking to define the best methodology and evaluation dates of the test. It was concluded that the seeds physiological maturity Vernonanthura discolor reached 45 days after the anthesis, when the maximum values of dry weight, germination and vigor are achieved. Germination test may be conducted on blotting paper at 20 or 25 °C with a supply of light, or at 25 °C in the dark, the first count being on the 13th and the last one on the 29th day after seeding.

The objective was to study the processing of Vernonanthura discolor seeds, evaluating their physical and physiological qualities and defining parameters for purity analysis and determine the weight of one thousand seeds. The seeds extracted from the infructescences were processed in a blower, testing combinations of openings of the calibration valve and the side air passage. After processing, the seeds went through water content determination, germination tests, first count of the germination test, purity analysis, weight of one thousand seeds and percentage of full seeds. Compared to the control, seeds processed in a regulated blower with the calibrator valve in position 10 plus three 360° turns of side air passage obtained an approximately three-fold increase in germination and vigour and had 96% purity. We conclude that the processing of V. discolor seeds was best done by combining the rubbing of the seeds on circular sieves (1.8 and 1.6 mm in diameter) and then passage in an adjusted seed blower (calibration valve in position 10 plus three 360° turns of side air passage). The weight of one thousand seeds is 0.500 g, and the working sample for purity analysis must be 1.3 g.

ABSTRACT: Fusarium wilt is a major disease which affects peach palm (Bactris gasipaes Kunth.var gasipaes Henderson). This study aimed to evaluate inoculation methods and aggressiveness of isolates of five Fusarium species on peach palm. Fusarium proliferatum can infect the leaves, stem, and roots of peach palm. F. proliferatum, F. oxysporum species complex (FOSC), F. verticillioides, F. solani species complex (FSSC), and Gibberella fujikuroi species complex (GFSC) are pathogenic to peach palm. The use of Fusarium-colonized ground corn for root inoculation was effective and reduced the level of damage to plants.

Resumo: O objetivo deste trabalho foi desenvolver critérios para condução do teste de tetrazólio em sementes de araucária (Araucaria angustifolia), com maior rapidez de execução e caracterização detalhada dos grupos de viabilidade. Inicialmente, foram conduzidos testes de germinação e de tetrazólio, de acordo as Regras para Análise de Sementes para Araucaria spp. Em seguida, avaliaram-se procedimentos mais práticos para condução do teste de tetrazólio, sem o pré-umedecimento das sementes e com a utilização de embriões excisados imersos diretamente na solução de tetrazólio; foram testadas três concentrações da solução (0,075, 0,2 e 0,5%), três períodos de coloração (1, 2 e 4 horas) e duas temperaturas de coloração (30 e 40°C). As médias obtidas por cada teste realizado foram comparadas pelo teste de Scott-Knott, a 1% de probabilidade. O teste de tetrazólio pode ser empregado com eficiência e maior rapidez por meio da excisão dos embriões de araucária e da imersão direta na solução de tetrazólio, ao se utilizar as seguintes combinações de concentração/período/temperatura: 0,5%/2 horas/30°C, 0,075%/4 horas/40°C ou 0,5%/2 horas/40°C, as quais permitem a classificação das sementes em dois grupos distintos de viabilidade (viáveis e inviáveis).

ABSTRACT The goal of the present study is to assess the physiological potential of Byrsonima crassifoliaseeds and analyze the procedures of the germination and tetrazolium tests, as well as the conservation of such seeds by testing different combinations of packaging and environment. The experiment used pyrenes of the clone Açu, collected from mother plants in the germplasm collection of muruci plants of Embrapa Amazonia Oriental, in Belém, Brazil. Different temperatures were tested in the germination test (25, 30, 35 and 20 - 30 ºC). The best methodology and assessment dates were determined for the test, and the seedlings of the species were characterized. Viability was assessed with the tetrazolium test, with combinations of hydration methods (by immersion and between paper towels), staining periods (3 and 4 h) and concentrations of tetrazolium solution (0.5, 0.7 and 1.0%). Storage of muruci pyrenes was evaluated at three, six and twelve months, in polyethylene and Kraft paper bags, under dry chamber and refrigerator conditions. The study used a randomized block design with four replicates. The data underwent analysis of variance. In conclusion, the physiological potential of seeds of B. crassifoliacan be assessed by the germination test conducted in sand, with alternating temperatures of 20-30 ºC, or with the use of the tetrazolium test (with staining for three hours in the tetrazolium solution at 1.0%) as a rapid assessment of viability. Muruci pyrenes can be kept in polythene or paper Kraft bags for up to 12 months, in a dry chamber at 16 ºC and with relative air humidity of 50 to 60%.

The aim of this work was to evaluate the use of the molecular biology technique of PCR (Polimerase Chain Reaction) in the characterization of soybean cultivars. The study was performed at the Department of Plant Production, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences/ UNESP and Institute of Bioscience, Botucatu-SP. Fourteen commercial soybean cultivars were used, of which six were selected as positive reaction to peroxidase (BRS 320, BRS 284, BRS 232, BRS 7860RR, BRSMG 760SRR, BRS295RR), four as negative reaction (BRS 326, BRS 8160RR, BRSMG 800A (NutriSoy), BRS Valiosa RR) and four as double reaction (BRSGO 8060, BRS 270RR, FTS Campo Mourão and BRS 239). Thus, the results attained by the traditional biochemical colorimetric test for the 14 cultivars were compared with the conventional PCR assay. For PCR analysis, DNA was extracted from whole seeds and the primers were tested, and subsequently PCR and agarose gel electrophoresis were performed. The combination of primers prx9 + prx10 confirmed the use of the PCR reaction to characterize soybean cultivars considered doubtful by conventional colorimetric text.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar tipos de preparo de sementes de guanandi (Calophyllum brasiliense), com vistas à superação da dormência física e mecânica, e verificar a influência da temperatura e do substrato sobre a germinação. Foram avaliados três substratos (papel, areia e vermiculita), duas temperaturas de germinação (25 e 30ºC) e quatro tipos de preparo das sementes: sementes íntegras; sementes nuas, sem tegumento e endocarpo; sementes com punctura no endocarpo, na região próxima ao eixo embrionário ou na região oposta ao eixo embrionário; e sementes cortadas a 1/3 da região oposta ao eixo embrionário. Foram realizados testes de vigor (índice de velocidade de germinação e emergência de plântulas em campo), e a curva de embebição foi obtida para os diferentes tipos de preparo da semente. A retirada total do envoltório (endocarpo e tegumento) é necessária para a completa superação da dormência física e mecânica das sementes de guanandi. A germinação das sementes deve ser realizada em substrato papel à temperatura de 30ºC.

The objective of this study was to identify microsatellites molecular markers linked to R genes, that confer the wheat grain color and evaluate the association with pre-harvest sprouting tolerance. This study was conducted with a F2 population with 203 plants, derived from the cross between PFAU x CD0666 genotypes, which segregates for one grain color gene. Were analyzed 43 molecular markers located in regions that containing R genes on 3B and 3D chromosomes. The Xbarc344 molecular marker was identified as linked to the R gene at a distance of 26.1 cM with 83.25% of selection efficiency. From the phenotypic analysis was confirmed the association between grain color with Xbarc344 molecular marker, however, there was no association between Xbarc344 with pre-harvest sprouting tolerance. Also, there was no association between grain color with pre-harvest sprouting tolerance. Although the grain color in wheat is a trait easy to select, it is known that not all R genes are involved with pre-harvest sprouting tolerance. Therefore, it is important the genetic mapping and specific evaluation of each R gene with pre-harvest sprouting tolerance. Thus, the molecular markers identified as associated with each R gene can be used to select plants that contain such genes, since it is not possible to identify phenotypically which R gene each plant has.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a variabilidade genética da ferrugem-asiática-da-soja no Brasil, com uso de marcadores microssatélites. Populações de esporos de Phakopsora pachyrhizi coletadas nas regiões Sul, Sudeste e Centro Oeste do país foram submetidas à análise de variabilidade genética, avaliada por meio de marcadores microssatélites específicos para o fungo. Foram coletadas, também, populações de fungo em diversas variedades de soja em uma mesma localidade, incluindo populações com lesão "reddish-brown" (RB). Entre essas populações, não houve variabilidade. Tecidos com lesões RB não apresentaram esporos do fungo e não amplificaram com os marcadores específicos para P. pachyrhizi. A variabilidade genética entre as populações coletadas nas três regiões variou de 0 a 0, 36. Observou-se tendência de agrupamento das populações da região Sul e Centro Oeste do Brasil em grupos diferentes. A existência de variabilidade genética em populações de P. pachyrhizi é um indicativo de que a resistência genética vertical, conferida por genes únicos, é uma estratégia de risco para os programas de melhoramento genético que visam a resistência à ferrugem-asiática-da-soja no Brasil.

Foi avaliada a capacidade combinatória de oito cultivares de trigo, por meio de um esquema dialélico analisado segundo o modelo quatro da metodologia de Griffing. Paralelamente, foi realizada uma análise de dissimilaridade com marcadores SSR, a partir de estimativas de distância genética baseadas em pedigree. Oito características foram avaliadas num experimento delineado em blocos ao acaso, com duas repetições. O agrupamento das cultivares a partir das distâncias genéticas foi efetuado com os métodos UPGMA e Tocher. Ficou evidenciada a variabilidade entre os genótipos de trigo. As cultivares 'CD 108', 'CD 0542' e 'CD 104' apresentaram grande capacidade geral de combinação para vários caracteres. Os maiores valores de capacidade específica de combinação foram detectados nos híbridos mais heterozigotos, formados pelo cruzamento de parentais integrantes de grupos diferentes. Os agrupamentos indicados pelo pedigree não coincidiram com os indicados a partir dos marcadores moleculares. As distâncias dos marcadores SSR provavelmente refletem melhor as relações entre as cultivares de trigo do que as distâncias medidas com base na genealogia. A falta de associação entre os padrões de agrupamento foi provavelmente devida às propriedades intrínsecas de cada forma de estimação das distâncias genéticas, as quais podem modificar a interpretação e a distribuição da variabilidade genética entre os genótipos avaliados.The combining ability of eight wheat varieties was evaluated according to the fourth model of the Griffing's diallelic methodology. Studies on genetic dissimilarity based on microsatellite markers and genetic distance among genotypes from pedigree data were also performed. The experiment was carried out in a randomized block design with two replications. Eight traits were evaluated in the diallel. Genotypes were grouped according to the UPGMA and Tocher methods. Genetic variability among genotypes was evident. Varieties 'CD 108', 'CD 0542' and 'CD 104' were those who showed high values for general combining ability in several traits. Since the effects of specific combining ability were more important in those particularly heterozygous combinations obtained from varieties allocated in different clusters, field and molecular results coincided in a certain way. There was no a good coincidence between the dendrogram based on parentage coefficient and the one based on microssatellite markers. The very small association between standards of grouping was probably related to the intrinsic properties of each way of estimating the genetic distance, which can modify the interpretation and the distribution of the genetic variability in the evaluated genotypes.

The first step in plant transformation using somatic embryogenesis ororganogenesis for plant regeneration in vitro has been the identification of genotypes with the best totipotency. Thus, the objective of this experiment was to evaluate the totipotency of ten cultivars and one soybean line from the Coodetec Gene Bank. The somatic embryos developed from immature cotyledons measuring from 4 to 6 mm in length, and the organogenesis was evaluated from mature soybean seeds. The cultivars CD 201, CD 216 and CD 220 were the most promising genotypes to produce somatic embryos, whereas the cultivar CD 217 had the highest quantity of differentiated explants, which represents the best regeneration efficiency for participating in organogenic systems. In the experiment with somatic embryogenesis, time to plant regeneration was ten months, but the plants were regenerated after only four months in the experiment with organogenesis.A identificação de genótipos que possuam maior totipotência quandosubmetidos à embriogênese somática e organogênese é a primeira etapa para a condução de um programa de transformação genética. Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o potencial de embriogênese somática e organogênese em nove cultivares de soja e uma linhagem, do banco de germoplasma da Coodetec. Cotilédones imaturos de soja com 4 a 6 mm de comprimento foram utilizados para produção de embriões somáticos, induzidos com 2,4-D, e sementes maduras de soja foram usadas para avaliação do potencial organogênico. As cultivares CD 201, CD 216 e CD 220 mostram-se promissoras para produção de embriões somáticos, enquanto que para o sistema organogênico a cultivar CD 217 apresentou a maior quantidade de explantes diferenciados e manteve a maior eficiência de regeneração. Para obtenção de uma planta via embriogênese somática foram necessários 10 meses, em virtude do período necessário para obtenção dos explantes. O sistema organogênico se mostrou mais rápido, e plantas completas de soja foram obtidas em quatro meses de cultivo in vitro.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a variabilidade genética de cultivares de soja com marcadores microssatélites selecionados e caracterizados quanto à informatividade para uso em gel de agarose. O DNA de 23 cultivares de soja foi amplificado com 283 marcadores microssatélites em gel de agarose a 3%. Posteriormente, 53 marcadores que apresentaram polimorfismo facilmente detectável nos géis de agarose foram utilizados na caracterização de 53 cultivares. Nessas cultivares foram detectados 124 alelos, com média de 2,34 alelos por loco, e os valores de conteúdo de informação polimórfica variaram entre 0,16 e 0,66, com média de 0,47. As frequências alélicas variaram de 0,02 a 0,91, com média de 0,43. A distância genética calculada variou de 0,02 a 0,73, com média de 0,47. A menor distância observada foi entre as cultivares CD201 e CD208, e a maior distância entre CD210 e BRSMT Uirapuru. Os marcadores utilizados possibilitaram a identificação das 53 cultivares avaliadas. Os locos microssatélites de soja, avaliados em gel de agarose, apresentam elevada informatividade. É possível detectar variabilidade significativa no germoplasma brasileiro de soja avaliado, mesmo entre cultivares elite, quando se usa marcadores moleculares microssatélites selecionados por sua informatividade.The objective of this work was to evaluate the genetic variability of soybean cultivars with microsatellite markers selected and characterized for their informativity to be used in agarose gel system. The DNA of 23 soybean cultivars was amplified with 283 microsatellite markers, using a 3% agarose gel systems. The 53 markers with clearly detectable polymorphism in the agarose gels were used to characterize 53 cultivars. In these 53 cultivars, 124 alleles were detected, with an average of 2.34 alleles per locus. Polymorphism information content values varied between 0.16 and 0.66, with an average of 0.47. Allele frequencies were of 0.02 to 0.91, with an average of 0.43. Genetic distance was of 0.02 to 0.73, with an average value of 0.47. The shortest distance was between cultivars CD201 and CD208, and the largest between CD210 and BRSMT Uirapuru. The markers used permitted the identification of all bean 53 cultivars. The soybean microssatellite loci evaluated in agarose gel presented high informativity. It is possible to detect significant variability in the Brazilian soybean germplasm evaluated, even among elite cultivars, when microssatellite molecular markers, selected for their informativity, are used.

Wheat (Triticum aestivum) is one of the most important food staples in the south of Brazil. Understanding genetic variability among the assortment of Brazilian wheat is important for breeding. The aim of this work was to molecularly characterize the thirty-six wheat cultivars recommended for various regions of Brazil, and to assess mutual genetic distances, through the use of microsatellite markers. Twenty three polymorphic microsatellite markers (PMM) delineated all 36 of the samples, revealing a total of 74 simple sequence repeat (SSR) alleles, i.e. an average of 3.2 alleles per locus. Polymorphic information content (PIC value) calculated to assess the informativeness of each marker ranged from 0.20 to 0.79, with a mean of 0.49. Genetic distances among the 36 cultivars ranged from 0.10 (between cultivars Ocepar 18 and BRS 207) to 0.88 (between cultivars CD 101 and Fudancep 46), the mean distance being 0.48. Twelve groups were obtained by using the unweighted pair-group method with arithmetic means analysis (UPGMA), and thirteen through the Tocher method. Both methods produced similar clusters, with one to thirteen cultivars per group. The results indicate that these tools may be used to protect intellectual property and for breeding and selection programs.

A primeira etapa de um programa de transformação genética de plantas é o estabelecimento de um protocolo de regeneração de plantas, a partir de cultura de tecidos. A regeneração de plantas pode ser conseguida por meio de organogênese ou embriogênese. A embriogênese somática é dependente do genótipo das plantas utilizadas e a identificação de genótipos mais responsivos a este método de regeneração resulta em maior eficiência da técnica. O trabalho teve como objetivo identificar genótipos de milho com maior capacidade de produção de embriões somáticos e regeneração de plantas. Foram investigados 11 genótipos (linhagens e híbridos). As culturas foram obtidas a partir de embriões imaturos, inoculados em meio N6, suplementado com 690mg L-1 de prolina e 10mM de 2,4-D, com subcultivos quinzenais. Nos genótipos LD82025, CD308 e CML314, foram observados calos do tipo II, friáveis e embriogênicos. Esses genótipos foram submetidos ao processo de regeneração, destacando-se a linhagem LD82025. Os genótipos CD307, CD304, OC-705, 105-B e o GU04328 não apresentaram indução de calos embriogênicos. Os resultados indicam que a linhagem LD82025 é a mais promissora para utilização em um programa de transformação genética de plantas.The establishment of a protocol for regenerating plants by tissue culture is the first step in breeding programs which have the objective of using genetic transformation on plants. The plant regeneration can be achieved either by organogenesis or embryogenesis. In the second case, the somatic embryogenesis depends on the identification of responsive genotypes which enhance the efficiency of the program. The aim of the present study was to identify maize genotypes with high capacity to produce somatic embryos and consequently regenerate maize plants. Eleven genotypes (inbreds and hybrids) were investigated in the present experiment. Under two-week periods, the cultures were obtained from immature embryos which were inoculated into growing medium N6 with 690mg L-1 of proline and 10mM of 2,4-D. Callis of type II, friable and embryogenic, were observed in the LD82025, CD308, and CML314 genotypes. After, they were submitted to the regeneration process and the best performance was achieved by the LD82025. No embryogenic callus was developed from CD307, CD304, OC-705, 105-B, and GU04328. In the present case, the inbred LD82025 is the most promising maize genotype for participating in a breeding program that will use the genetic transformation of maize plants.

O tipo de reprodução sexuada da planta cubiu é ainda discutido entre os pesquisadores. O trabalho teve como objetivos: avaliar o controle da polinização na frutificação de cubiu, verificar o efeito do estádio de desenvolvimento do botão floral e do horário na receptividade do estigma e na germinação in vitro de grãos de pólen. Anteras de flores de plantas cultivadas em casa-de-vegetação foram maceradas e os grãos de pólen inoculados em placas Petri para avaliação do efeito da concentração de sacarose, do horáriode coleta e do estádio das flores na germinação in vitro. DNA de amostras de folhas jovens foram purificadas, amplificados por marcadores RAPD. Os resultados indicaram que o ambiente de cultivo interferiu na formação de flores, inflorescências e frutos. O emprego de diferentes concentrações de sacarose não promoveu modificações no número médio de grãos de pólen germinados. Pela análise dos estigmas, verificou-se que a receptividade independe dos horários de coleta e do estádio das flores. Pelas análises de marcadores RAPD, verificou-se a ocorrência de variabilidade genética intra-varietal. Assim, conclui-se que o cubiu é uma planta alógama, porém pelas taxas de germinação dos grãos de pólen e pela receptividade do estigma há indícios de ocorrência de autofecundação.The type of sexual reproduction of the species amazonic named cubiu is until discussed among researchers. Thus, the present work had the goal to evaluate the control of pollination in the fruiting of cubiu, to verify the influence of the developmental stage of the floral buds and time of pollination on the stigma receptivity, and in vitro germination of the pollen grain. Anthers from the flowers grown inthe greenhouse were grinded and the pollen grains were placed in Petri dishes to evaluate the influence of sucrose, time of harvest and stage of flower development on the germination. A DNA sample from young leaves was purified, amplified by the RAPD technique. The results pointed out that the environment of growth interfered in the flower formation, inflorescences and fruiting. The use of different concentrations of sucrose did not affect the number of germinated pollen grain. The stigma analyses showed that its receptivity was inde-pendent from the time of harvest and stage of flower development.The RAPD analysis showed occurrence of intra-variety genetic variability. Thus, the cubiu is alogamic plant, but based on the rate of pollen germination and stigma receptivity the plant may have occurrence of self pollination.

Este trabalho teve o objetivo de avaliar o fluxo gênico em soja, na Região Oeste do Paraná. Foram semeados cinco círculos concêntricos, com a cultivar CD 219RR, que contém o gene CP4 EPSPS. Os círculos foram espaçados em 50 cm, com círculo interno de diâmetro de 50 cm. Externamente a estes, foi semeada a cultivar CD 211 (convencional), também em cinco círculos concêntricos, espaçados em 1 m. As plantas da cultivar CD 211 foram colhidas e trilhadas individualmente, e as sementes semeadas novamente no campo. Após a emergência, foram obtidas 151.772 plântulas, as quais, com 15 dias, foram pulverizadas com 900 g ha-1 de i.a. de glifosato. Após uma semana, plantas sobreviventes foram submetidas à análise de PCR, para verificar a presença do gene CP4 EPSPS. A taxa de fecundação cruzada foi de 0,61, 0,29, 0,23, 0,22 e 0,23% respectivamente a 1, 2, 3, 4 e 5 m de distância das plantas geneticamente modificadas.The objective of this work was to evaluate soybean gene flow in the Western Region of Paraná. Five concentric circles were sowed with the CD 219RR cultivar, which contains the CP4 EPSPS gene. The circles were spaced in 50 cm and the central circle had 50 cm in diameter. Externally to the CD 219RR circles, five concentric circles were sowed with CD 211 cultivar, a no genetically modified soybean, spaced of 1 m. The CD 211 plants were harvested and threshed separately and the seeds were sowed again. After the emergency, 151,772 seedlings were obtained, which with 15 days were sprayed with 900 g ha-1 a.i. of glyphosate. After one week, the surviving plants were analysed by PCR to verify the CP4 EPSPS gene presence. The cross-pollinating rate was 0.61, 0.29, 0.23, 0.22 and 0.23% in 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 m distance of the genetically modified plants, respectively.

The industrial quality and lodging resistance of CD 150, a cross between CD104 and CD108, are high and the plant heightis short. The average yield was 10 % higher than of the controls in the regions II, III and IV. It is suitable for cultivation in the states of PR,SP, MS and GO, MG, and DF.

A cultivar de trigo (Triticum aestivum L.) CD 117 foi obtida pela Cooperativa Central de Pesquisa Agrícola, por meio do cruzamento entre os genótipos PF 87373 e OC 938, a partir de uma linha selecionada na geração F6. Após dois anos de ensaios preliminares e cinco anos de avaliação em ensaios de valor de cultivo e uso, a cv. CD 117 foi indicada para cultivo no Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, Paraná, São Paulo, Mato Grosso do Sul, Mato Grosso, Goiás, Minas Gerais e Distrito Federal. Essa cultivar de trigo apresenta ampla adaptação, elevada qualidade industrial e rendimento médio de grãos de 3.877 kg ha-1, que supera em 6,3% a média das cultivares testemunhas.The wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivar CD 117 was obtained by the Cooperativa Central de Pesquisa Agrícola as a result of crossing the PF 87373 and OC 938 genotypes. One selected line from generation F6 originated the referred cultivar. After two years of preliminary assays and five years of value of cultivation and use trials, cultivar CD 117 was recommended for cultivation in the states of Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina, Paraná, São Paulo, Mato Grosso do Sul, Mato Grosso, Goiás, and Minas Gerais and in the Distrito Federal, Brazil. This wheat cultivar has wide adaptation, high industrial quality and a mean grain yield of 3,877 kg ha-1, which exceeds the control cultivar mean yields in 6.3%.

Cultivar CD 116 was developed by the Cooperativa Central de Pesquisa Agrícola (COODETEC) and issuitable for cultivation in the states of Paraná, São Paulo, Mato Grosso do Sul, Mato Grosso, Minas Gerais, Goiás, andDistrito Federal. CD 116 is tolerant to the major diseases, particularly blast, has a high industrial grain quality and meanyield of 3908 kg ha-1, exceeding the control cultivars by 6%.

The first step in plant transformation using somatic embryogenesis or organogenesis for plant regeneration in vitro has been the identification of genotypes with the best totipotency. Thus, the objective of this experiment was to evaluate the totipotency of ten cultivars and one soybean line from the Coodetec Gene Bank. The somatic embryos developed from immature cotyledons measuring from 4 to 6 mm in length, and the organogenesis was evaluated from mature soybean seeds. The cultivars CD 201, CD 216 and CD 220 were the most promising genotypes to produce somatic embryos, whereas the cultivar CD 217 had the highest quantity of differentiated explants, which represents the best regeneration efficiency for participating in organogenic systems. In the experiment with somatic embryogenesis, time to plant regeneration was ten months, but the plants were regenerated after only four months in the experiment with organogenesis.

O tipo de reprodução sexuada da planta cubiu é ainda discutido entre os pesquisadores. O trabalho teve como objetivos: avaliar o controle da polinização na frutificação de cubiu, verificar o efeito do estádio de desenvolvimento do botão floral e do horário na receptividade do estigma e na germinação in vitro de grãos de pólen. Anteras de flores de plantas cultivadas em casa-de-vegetação foram maceradas e os grãos de pólen inoculados em placas Petri para avaliação do efeito da concentração de sacarose, do horário de coleta e do estádio das flores na germinação in vitro. DNA de amostras de folhas jovens foram purificadas, amplificados por marcadores RAPD. Os resultados indicaram que o ambiente de cultivo interferiu na formação de flores, inflorescências e frutos. O emprego de diferentes concentrações de sacarose não promoveu modificações no número médio de grãos de pólen germinados. Pela análise dos estigmas, verificou-se que a receptividade independe dos horários de coleta e do estádio das flores. Pelas análises de marcadores RAPD, verificou-se a ocorrência de variabilidade genética intra-varietal. Assim, conclui-se que o cubiu é uma planta alógama, porém pelas taxas de germinação dos grãos de pólen e pela receptividade do estigma há indícios de ocorrência de autofecundação.

Abstract: Calophyllum brasiliense Cambess. (guanandi) is a native species with medicinal potential and also generates expectation for commercial use (wood) and for recovery of degraded areas. These seeds have physical and mechanical dormancy, requiring techniques for dormancy release; knowledge of seed and seedling morphology that assists laboratory analysis and propagation of the species is also necessary. The objective of this study was to describe the morphological structures of the seeds and normal and abnormal seedlings of guanandi, and also investigate if complete extraction of the endocarp and the seed coat to overcome dormancy will affect the morphology and initial plant development, and consequently production of transplants. Guanandi seeds are large (1000 seed weight of 1480.9 g) with a hard seed coat; cotyledons account for most of the embryo and serve as a reserve; the embryonic axis is small (1.0-2.0 mm) in relation to the seed, yet it is differentiated. The seedlings have hypogeal cryptocotylar germination, with cotyledonary petioles, taproot, and epicotyl developing into a long stem and a tip protected by cataphylls. The main abnormalities in seedlings are related to the root system. Extraction of the endocarp and seed coat does not alter the morphology of seedlings and promotes their greater development, which may be an advantageous strategy.

Abstract: Salinity and water deficit limit the productivity of several crops; thus, studies related to the genetic transformation of seeds in a model plant, such as tobacco, can be an alternative to minimize negative impacts caused by environmental conditions. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the tolerance to osmotic stress of seeds from genetically transformed tobacco plants, with the introduction of the proline-synthesizer gene (p5csf129a), under salinity and water deficit conditions. To do so, five events with differences in proline content were selected, ranging from 0.70 to 10.47 µmoles.g-1 of fresh mass. The used saline concentrations were: zero (distilled water); 50; 100; 150 and 200 mmol.L-1 of NaCl, whereas for the water deficit, simulated with PEG 6000, the following osmotic potentials were used: zero (distilled water); -0.2; -0.4; -0.6 and -0.8 MPa. Each tested treatment was evaluated through germination, first germination count and germination speed index tests. It is possible to conclude that seeds from genetically transformed tobacco plants with overexpression of the gene p5csf129a, a proline synthesizer, are more tolerant to osmotic stresses. Tabacco seeds with a proline content of 10.47 µmol.g-1 showed a better perfomance, revealing higher physiological potential.