Accessing the physiological quality of bean seeds using the Vigor-S® system

The automated analysis of seed vigor stands out by allowing greater precision, standardization, objectivity and speed in the evaluation of the physiological potential of seed lots. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of the Vigor-S® system in accessing the physiological quality of common bean seeds, compared to the information provided by vigor tests recommended for this species. Four cultivars of common bean were used, each one represented by four lots. The characterization of the physiological potential of the lots was carried out by the tests: germination, first count of germination, seedling emergence, accelerated aging, and electrical conductivity. The results of these tests were compared with the data obtained by using the image analysis technique, by using the Vigor-S® system, which was used to evaluate the seedlings growth of seedlings at two, three and four days after the beginning of the germination test. It was obtained the length of the aerial part, primary root and seedling; and growth, uniformity and vigor indexes. The computed analysis of seedlings images using Vigor-S® is a consistent alternative for evaluation of bean seeds vigor and produces information compatible with those obtained by traditional tests used for accessing the quality of bean seeds.