Materials used for seed storage containers: response to G?mez-Campo [Seed Science Research16, 291?294 (2006)]?

AbstractEfficient seed storage is a shared concern among the growing number of seed banks established for crop improvement or ex situconservation. Container properties greatly affect seed interactions with the environment and the overall cost and success of seed banking operations. Several material properties contribute to their suitability as seed containers. This paper provides a consolidated list of water vapour permeability properties of thermal plastics commonly used for packaging. Composite packages with layers of film with different properties provide distinct advantages to seed banks. Different seed banks must rank the importance of the various factors depending on their mission and resources. Once the risks, costs and benefits are weighed, an appropriate strategy can be developed that addresses a seed bank's specific needs. Because there are many problems and several solutions, it is likely that strategies will vary among seed banks. This response details variables to consider when selecting seed storage packages, and focuses on water diffusion rates of packages with different compositions. A ?moisture audit? will help seed bank operators make informed decisions about packaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]