Interpopulation variation in seed traits of five Polygonaceae

Interpopulation variability in seed traits may drive the regeneration capacity of a species to colonize different environments. In present study, we evaluated variation physical (mass / size, water imbibition, shape index) and physiological (germination) five Polygonaceae species. Seeds Polygonum lapathifolium var. salicifolium , P. Reynoutria japonica Rumex trisetifer R. obtusifolius were collected from two or three populations Jiujiang, China. Physical measured before germination tests conducted under combinations light temperatures. Most had significant traits, although are geographically close. appeared be species-specific, with highest for lowest seeds. Germination response temperature conditions also varied among populations, being mostly inhibited dark treatments. The dependence can related small except round-seeded depending on regime. Optimal ranges mainly 10/20°C 25/35°C, decreases percentage at both coolest warmest extremes. requirements seem altitudinal gradients