Evaluation cottonseed vigor through computer image analysis of the seedlings1

The evaluation of seed vigor through image analysis has been gaining space in quality-control programs due to its easy use, objectivity, and speed. This study aimed at assessing the computer image analysis of seedling as a method for evaluate cottonseed (SVIS®), and compare it with tests traditionally employed for the same purpose. The experiments used cottonseeds of the cultivar FM975WS. First germination count, accelerated aging, low-temperature germination, emergence in sand and emergence-in sand speed index, seedling emergence in the field, and computer analysis were used to evaluate the seed vigor. The results showed that performing the computer image analysis with the software SVIS® is a viable alternative to assess the vigor of cottonseeds.