Effects of elevated CO₂ and temperature on seed quality

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Plant Physiology
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Crop production relies on high-quality seed.
• Climate change is predicted to affect crop yields by 2050.
• The impact of climate change on seed quality requires investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the effects of elevated carbon dioxide (CO2) and temperature on seed mass, germination, and vigour.
• To understand how climate change factors influence seed quality components.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on elevated CO2 and temperature effects on seed quality.
• Analysis of impacts on seed mass, germination, and seed vigour.

Main Results:

• Elevated CO2 shows variable effects on seed mass (increase/decrease in C3 plants, no change in C4).
• Increased temperature can decrease seed mass and reduce germination and vigour, especially under high-temperature stress.
• Changes in seed C/N ratio and physiological deterioration are linked to reduced viability and vigour.

Conclusions:

• Climate change factors like elevated CO2 and temperature pose risks to seed quality, particularly germination and vigour.
• Seed industry must develop management strategies to mitigate potential losses in seed quality.
• Further research is needed on the effects of elevated CO2 on seed vigour.