Hydrochory in seeds of Agave victoriae-reginae T. Moore endangered species: Morphology and anatomy as facilitators of hydro-dispersion and germination

Abstract

Agave victoriae-reginae is an endemic species from Chihuahuan Desert which grows on canyon walls. It has flattened seeds that can be dispersed during episodic flood events. This study was focused on examining possible morphological and anatomical adaptations which promote seed hydro-dispersion. A morphological and anatomical seed analysis by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was performed. Aspects of permeability, flotation, germination and germination rate (T50) for treatment and seed sizes were evaluated. The seeds are different in length, diameter, thickness, but not in weight; lacryform semi-flat shape and covered with porous air chambers in the hypodermis and were considered neutral photoblastic. We conclude that seeds of A. victoriae-reginae have hydro-dispersion characteristics.