Growth Correlates of Electromotive Forces in Maize Seeds

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Abstract
By use of a potentiometer with a d.c. microvoltmeter, the differences in e.m.f. of maize seeds soaked 18-24 hrs. were studied. The micropylar end of the seed is almost always negative to the germ end, and the reading in this dimension is always greater and usually proportional to the reading in other positions on the seed. The prime potential is obtained when the electrodes first touch the seed. The galvanometer needle then falls off rapidly until, within 30-120 sec. an equilibrium potential is reached and retained for 2-5 min. The prime potential is apparently highly correlated with seed viability (as judged by % germination and by yield), but is not correlated with growth rate or date of silking or tasselling. The equilibrium potential is not significantly correlated with seed viability, but rather with inherent genetic constitution of a plant, for by use of the potentiometer, one is regularly able to segregate those seeds with superior growth characteristics, even in instances where the superior growth does not manifest itself for 6-8 wks. Further, the potential differences between seeds have been highly correlated with the growth of progeny which were one generation removed. It is concluded that the potentiometer may be a useful tool for plant breeders.

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