Planta Med 2011; 77 - PA23
DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1282219

Effect of static magnetic field on seed germination early growth and activities of some enzymes in Melissa officinalis seeds

L Poorakbar 1, H Sedghi 1, MA Samani 1
  • 1Urmia university, IRAN

The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of static magnetic field (o, 25, 50 and 75µT) and exposure time (15, 30 and 60 minutes) on Melissa officinalis L. seed germination. Treatment of Melissa officinalis seeds in these magnetic fields increased the germination rate (GR), germination index (GI), germination rate coefficient (GRC), seedling length and seedling dry and fresh weight under laboratory germination tests. In germinating seeds, enzyme activities of α-amylase, dehydrogenase and protease were significantly higher in treated seeds in contrast to controls. The higher enzyme activity in magnetic-field-treated Melissa officinalis seeds could be triggering the fast germination and early vigor of seedlings.

Keywords: Melissa officinalis, seed germination test, α-amylase, dehydrogenase, protease and magnetic field

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