ABSTRACT
The economic importance of mahogany highlights the relevance of analysing seed vigour with a view to the formation of quality seedlings. The aim was to evaluate the influence of different temperatures and periods of exposure in tests of accelerated ageing in mahogany seeds. The variables analysed were: water content, seedling emergence, emergence speed index, relative frequency and mean emergence time after accelerated ageing [(39, 41, 43 and 45 °C for 0 (control), 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours]. Seed vigour in mahogany seeds can be evaluated by means of the accelerated ageing test at temperatures of 39 °C for 96 hours, and at 43 °C for 48 or 96 hours. The combination of 43 °C for 48 hours can reduce the time needed for evaluation of the seeds. The emergence speed index is an effective variable in evaluating the effect of accelerated ageing on mahogany seeds.
Key words:
Swietenia macrophylla; Forest seeds; Vigour
