Resumo

GAMEZ-VAZQUEZ, Alfredo Josué et al. Physiological quality of the seed and maize seedlings development at low temperatures. Rev. Mex. Cienc. Agríc [online]. 2015, vol.6, n.8, pp.1769-1779. ISSN 2007-0934.

The adaptation of maize to early plantings required improving their tolerance to low temperatures, in terms of the ability of the seeds to germinate and produce seedlings at such temperatures. The aim of this study was to identify the variables that seed and seedlings are involved in tolerance to low temperatures of lines and hybrids adapted to the high valleys of Mexico. Were evaluated, in the laboratory and greenhouse 17 genetic materials, including a hybrid of the tropics and a synthetic variety of temperate conditions. Genotypes were evaluated in the laboratory at temperatures of 4, 8, 12 and 25 °C. The genetic materials from the highest elevation area had a better tolerance, high germination rates, plumule dry weight and radicle; besides faster emergence. The dry weight of the radicle was proportionally less affected than the plumule by low temperatures. The response to low temperature tolerance was induced in susceptible genotype s to reduce from 8 to 4 °C temperature. The results suggest that, the cold test with 8 °C for 7 days before the induction germination can be used as a quick test of tolerance to low temperatures.

Palavras-chave : Zea mays L.; germination; plumule dry weight; tolerance.