Regeneration of roots and shoots as a propagation strategy in Eugenia candolleana DC. (Myrtaceae) seeds

Seeds of the genus Eugenia have high regenerative capacity, producing roots and shoots from seeds with reduced cotyledon matter. In addition, seeds of this genus regenerate new roots and shoots when the first roots and shoots are eliminated, and this characteristic is maintained even when the seed reserves are reduced by up to half. The aim of this study was to analyze the limits of new root and shoot regenerative capacity in whole and fractionated Eugenia candolleana seeds at different maturity stages. The regenerative capacity of seeds stored for six months was also evaluated. The seeds were sown; and when the first roots and shoots were produced, they were eliminated, simulating herbivory conditions. The results showed that the seed not only has high regenerative capacity at different maturity stages, but also that it maintains root regeneration when the seed is reduced by half, even after the storage period. Such information may indicate that seeds of the Eugenia genus can await the next crop season by regenerating several times as a way to withstand or tolerate predation. This ability can be understood as a propagation strategy of the species.