Assessment of the germination potential of two native forest species: Afzelia quanzensis (Welw.) and Colophospermum mopane (J.Kirk ex Benth.) J.Kirk ex J.Léonard

Abstract

The natural regeneration of native forest species depends on the viability and germination potential of their seeds. Afzelia quanzensis and Colophospermum mopane are two species of ecological and economic relevance in tropical ecosystems, but there is little information available on their germination. The present study aimed to evaluate the germination potential of these species outside their natural habitat and under the influence of different pre-germination treatments. For this purpose, the seeds were soaked in water for disinfection and immersed in hot water for periods of 24-48 hours at an average temperature of 25-28ºC and then placed in a greenhouse under controlled conditions of watering, light, temperature, humidity, and ventilation. The results showed that breaking dormancy did not have a significant impact on seed germination, as both seeds germinate with or without pre-treatment; however, it did influence seeds subjected to pre-germination for 48 hours, compared to those that were subjected to 24 hours. It was observed that there was earlier germination, faster growth, greater uniformity in seedling development, and the production of healthier seedlings. The species A. quanzensis showed the best results, reaching a germination rate of 90.47% compared to 80.95% for C. mopane, showing the same indicators for germination potential and seedling survival rate. The preliminary results indicate that A. quanzensis could have a very promising potential if used in reforestation programs and the recovery of degraded areas.