Physio-biochemical and Genetic Changes in Stored Pea (Pisum sativum) Seeds

Studies were carried out to evaluate the physiological and biochemical changes in pea seeds (cv. Meteor) stored at 5 +/- 1 degrees C and ambient temperature 25 +/- 2 degrees C. RAPD makers were used to identify any genetic dissimilarity in pea seeds stored up to two years under different storage environments. Maximum germination (98.33%) was recorded in seeds from freshly harvest seeds and minimum was 90% in 2 years old seed stored at 5 degrees C +/- 1. The decline in vigor was rapid in one year seed stored under ordinary condition compared to other storage environment. The alpha- and beta-amylase activity was higher in recent harvest seeds compared to stored seeds. The storage period showed significant effects on alpha-and beta-amylase activity and a decreasing trend was observed as the storage period prolonged. Similarly, peroxidase and catalase activity was also higher in fresh seeds in contrast to alpha- and beta-amylase. Genetic analysis (RAPD) showed 2% dissimilarity in genetic profile amongst the seed lots. However, the seeds stored for longer period regardless the storage environment, have more genetic damage. The physiological, biochemical and genetic changes could be helpful in understanding the mechanism of pea seeds deterioration. (C) 2013 Friends Science Publishers