VIABILITY AND MORPHOMETRY IN Agave SEEDS AS AN INITIAL STUDY FOR SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT AND GENETIC PRESERVATION

Jorge Luis Lechuga-Campuzano, Amaury Martín Arzate-Fernández, Hilda Guadalupe García-Núñez, María Dolores Mariezcurrena-Berasaín, Jesús Ignacio Reyes Díaz

Abstract


Background: The Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Valley (TCV), located at the crossroads of the Nearctic and Neotropical biogeographic regions, is a critical hotspot for biodiversity, particularly for the genus Agave. This region plays a vital role in preserving various species, with Agave being one of the most important genus due to its ecological and economic significance. Methodology: Agave angustifolia, A. cupreata, A. marmorata, A. potatorum, and A. salmiana seed collection was conducted in the TCV, followed by dehydration and storage under controlled conditions. Seed viability was assessed using the tetrazolium chloride (TTC) test. The percentage of viable embryos ( %V) was calculated. Seed morphometry was analyzed by measuring length, width, weight, and volume. Results: Significant interspecific variability in seed viability was found. A. marmorata exhibited the highest viability across all time points, reaching 78.49 % at 72 hours, indicating robust physiological mechanisms. In contrast, A. potatorum showed the lowest viability, with a maximum of 57.99 %, likely due to genetic limitations or suboptimal conditions during seed development. Morphometric analysis also revealed significant differences among the tested species, with A. angustifolia seeds being the largest and A. marmorata the smallest. Implications: This study underscores the importance of understanding seed viability and morphometric traits in Agave species. These factors are crucial for the conservation and sustainable management of both wild and cultivated populations. The variability in seed viability and morphometric traits has significant implications for conservation efforts, as it can influence regeneration strategies and breeding programs aimed at improving crop yields or conserving native species. Conclusion: A. marmorata showed the highest seed viability, indicating robust physiological adaptations, while A. potatorum had the lowest viability and a high percentage of seedless embryos, suggesting potential reproductive challenges. Seed morphometric analysis revealed differences that could affect dispersal and germination success. In the broader context of biodiversity conservation in the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Valley, these results offer valuable insights into the genetic and physiological diversity of Agave, guiding future conservation efforts.

Keywords


Agave seed viability, Morphometric analysis, Ex situ conservation, Tetrazolium test

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References


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URN: http://www.revista.ccba.uady.mx/urn:ISSN:1870-0462-tsaes.v28i2.61933

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.56369/tsaes.6193

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Copyright (c) 2025 Jesús Ignacio Reyes Díaz, Jorge Luis Lechuga-Campuzano, Hilda Guadalupe García-Núñez, Amaury Martín Arzate-Fernández, María Dolores Mariezcurrena-Berasaín

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