The proper packaging techniques for maintaining seed viability of bakau (Rhizophora apiculata) during storage

Abstract

Yuniarti N, Djaman DF. 2015. The proper packaging techniques for maintaining seed viability of bakau (Rhizophora apiculata) during storage Pros Sem Nas Masy Biodiv Indon 1: 1438-1441. Mangrove seed (Rhizophora apiculata) belongs to the recalcitrant seeds group. Recalcitrant seeds which are easily damaged (viability decreases) when the water level is lowered and could not be stored for long periods at high temperatures and low humidity. Thus, problems in the procurement and handling of seed types is rapidly declining recalcitrant seed viability in line with the length of storage. The purpose of this research was to know the proper packaging techniques for maintaining mangrove seed viability during storage. Mangrove seeds used in this study came from Bali. The experiment was conducted in the laboratory and greenhouse plants of the Seed Technology Research Institute of Forest (BPTPTH) Bogor, West Java. The experimental design used in this research was Completely Randomized Design Factorial pattern, using two factors, namely packaging containers factor (i.e. styrofoam boxes, wooden boxes, cardboard boxes, styrofoam boxes + cocopeat, wood boxes + cocopeat, cardboard boxes + cocopeat) and storage time factor (i.e., 0 day, 5 days, 10 days, 15 days). Space was space savings and used the room temperature. The parameter observed in this study was germination and moisture content of the seeds. The results showed that: (i) container packaging, storage time and their interaction significantly affect on mangrove seed viability, (ii) containers best packaging for the seed to the mangroves was given cardboard boxes + cocopeat. With this treatment, the storage time of 15 days can generate value by 93% germination with a water content of seeds 51.44%, and (iii) retention significantly affect on mangrove seed viability. The longer of storage time would lead to decreased viability of the seed.