Abstract
Sinojackia xylocarpa Hu, a member of the first new genus described and published by the Chinese botanist Hu, is an endangered plant endemic to China. We analysed mechanisms of seed dormancy in S. xylocarpa at the cytological level. Cell composition, structure, morphology, and hydration in fruit and seeds were observed using paraffin section detection, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and magnetic resonance imaging. The results indicate that mechanical constraints in the endosperm and endocarp are important causes of dormancy. Germination tests indicated that embryos are non-dormant; rather, the endosperm imposes significant mechanical constraints on germination, particularly around the radicle.
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Acknowledgements
We would like to thank the College of Forestry, Nan**g Forestry University, and Co-innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Southern Tree Inspection Center National Forestry Administration.
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This work was financed by the Priority Academic Program Development of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions (PAPD).
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YBS conceived the original screening and research plans; YW performed the experiments using the MRI, SEM, and PSD methods; YW designed the experiments and analysed the data; YW conceived the project and wrote the article with contributions of all the authors. WQB proofreads the revised manuscript. HH proofreads the references. YW agrees to serve as the author responsible for contact and ensures communication. All authors have read and approved the manuscript.
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We strictly comply with the Convention on the Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, and also abide by Law of the People's Republic of China on Wildlife Protection. Research permission on Tilia miqueliana tree has been obtained from Jiangsu Wildlife Protection Station. The collection of experimental intact seeds was approved by Nan**g Forestry University in Jiangsu Province, China.
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Wu, Y., Bao, W.Q., Hu, H. et al. Mechanical Constraints in the Endosperm and Endocarp are Major Causes of Dormancy in Sinojackia xylocarpa Hu (Styracaceae) Seeds. J Plant Growth Regul 42, 644–657 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00344-021-10572-3
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00344-021-10572-3