The main objective of this work was to evaluate the influence of arabic coffee seed characteristics in its physiological potential and overall seedling quality. The experiment described here consisted of six treatments, with four replications, in a completely random model, combined with a factorial outline (3x2). The two seed characteristics evaluated were size (3 sieves: 18/64", 20/64"and 22/64") and mass (2 classes: heavy and light). The seeds were from Catuaí Amarelo IAC 86 variety (Coffea arabica L.). The seed physiologic quality was evaluated by germination rate and initial population index. Seedling quality was estimated by the variables leaf area index, cotyledon leaves, plant height, stem diameter, and leaf, stem and root dry matter. The data analysis suggested that size separation although necessary is not sufficient for an appropriate selection for high seed physiologic potential and quality of seedling production. On the other hand, total mass amount, which represents a partial estimative of endosperm mass, is a fundamental characteristic to be considered. Therefore, the association of bots arabic Coffee seed size and mass aspects should be recommended as a technical procedure during seed selection process.
Coffea arabica L.; amount of mass; seed size
