Pettenkofer method for assessing the quality of habanero pepper seeds

Quick and reproducible methods for evaluating the physiological quality of seeds are needed for decision making in quality control programs. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency and quickness of Pettenkofer method to determine the respiratory activity to differentiate the vigor of five lots of habanero pepper seeds (Capsicum chinenses jacquin). It also determined the water content, germination test, seedling emergence and electrical conductivity in seeds of five lots. In addition to the physiological analysis it was also examined expression of esterase enzymes, catalase, malate dehydrogenase and alcohol dehydrogenase by electrophoresis technique. The experimental design was completely randomized with four replications. There was a correlation between the results of the respiratory activity and the tests used to evaluate the physiological quality of seeds. The results allowed the classification of lots habanero pepper seeds in different levels of physiological quality. The Pettenkofer system use is efficient and quick to distinguish quality levels of lots pepper seeds, which may be considered promising method to identify differences in physiological quality of lots pepper seeds.