BioMatNet Item: AIR2-CT93-1667 - A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Understanding and Efficient Handling of Seed Dormancy in Tree Species

AIR2-CT93-1667
A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Understanding and Efficient Handling of Seed Dormancy in Tree Species

Contacts
Further Information

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AIR Cluster IX - Forestry : Crops for Solid Wood Products : Plant Genetics : Wood (Lignocellulose)

	Contract No	AIR2-CT93-1667
	Total Cost	1 746 990
	EC Contribution	1 251 000
	Start Date	01/09/1993
	Duration	36 months

OBJECTIVE:

This project will deal with tree seed dormancy throughout all phases including: induction of primary dormancy, seed processing procedures and possible induction of secondary dormancy, dormancy breaking methods and storage of pretreated seeds. The programme exploits an approach which encompasses both applied and strategic aspects of seed biology. Information gathered on treatments which induce or alleviate dormancy will be fed into the strategic programme which aims to determine the primary mechanisms underpinning dormancy induction and breakage.

For between four and eight species data will be obtained on

optimal seed collection and processing procedures and
the efficiency and efficacy of specific seed pretreatments in regulating and coordinating the duration and depth of dormancy and the accuracy of viability tests of dormant seeds.

For two species more detailed information will be obtained to allow

the roles of abscisic acid, gibberillins and ethylene in dormancy induction and breakage to be determined and
the roles of specific genes and gene products to be ascertained leading to the development of a molecular marker for dormancy.

Furthermore, a computer database with seed dormancy characteristics will be established

Contacts

Coordinator

Dr Erik NYMANN ERIKSEN / Royal Veterinary & Agricultural University / DENMARK

EC Scientific Officer

Alexandros ARABATZIS / European Commission DG Research Theme 1 Key Action 5.3 / BELGIUM

Participant