Excel spreadsheet for quick calculation of seed morphophysiological traits
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Abstract
An Excel spreadsheet was developed for the rapid calculation of 19 morphophysiological traits of easily obtained seeds. The spreadsheet has seven sheets and the seed traits cover properties related to dispersal, persistence, germination and seedling establishment. The primary variables of seed length and seed mass are entered on the first sheet. Below are six sheets showing the automatic calculation of seed traits for: 1) moisture content, 2) shape, 3) biomass distribution, 4) embryo-seed ratio, 5) permeability, and 6) desiccation tolerance. The indexes were calculated using mathematical expressions commonly used in international scientific publications for working with seeds. The use of this tool will allow the rapid processing of a large number of replicates per seminal trait. For each calculated variable, basic information on central tendency and dispersion statistics is also offered. To our knowledge, this is the first time that an Excel spreadsheet has been proposed for the rapid computation of a large number of seed morphophysiological traits. Its use could contribute to the standardization of seminal biology studies in Cuba and at the regional level.
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