Abstract

ROMERO RODRIGUEZ, Jorge Arturo et al. Chemical scarification of papaya seed. Rev. Mex. Cienc. Agríc [online]. 2013, vol.4, n.6, pp.947-954. ISSN 2007-0934.

Late germinating and erratic seed from papaya is affected by the presence of sarcotesta, membrane containing phenolic compounds inducing latency same which inhibits the exchange of liquids and gases, prolongs the drying period and facilitates colonization of pathogens. The techniques used in benefit of the papaya seed to eliminate the sarcotesta are limited, therefore the aim of this study was to obtain useful technology in this aspect, which was compared to other treatments with sodium hydroxide, sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid and assessed its effect on the physical, health and physiological quality of the seed. The research was conducted at the Seed Testing Laboratory of the Graduate College, Campus Montecillo, State of Mexico, in 2011. NaOH to 25% and 15 min of immersion, removed 98% of sarcotesta, presented just 2% of incidence of micoflora, an increased and homogenized germination. H2SO4 to 100% removed the sarcotesta, inhibited fungal colonization with only 6% when used in concentrated form, but negatively affected the germination. The HCl was ineffective in eliminating sarcotesta (9.6%) had the highest fungal colonization (97% incidence) and the lowest germination percentage (7%). The positive effects of the use of NaOH in the benefit of papaya seed, is that simulates natural degradation of sarcotesta and improves the condition of the seed, so it is a viable alternative for use in conditioning seed.

Keywords : Carica papaya L.; sarcotesta; dormancy; germination; health; vigor.

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