ABSTRACT
Effects of environmental factors on seed germination and seedling emergence of Tausch's goatgrass (Aegilops Tauschii Coss.)

Pei Zhang1, 2, 3*, Xinyang Yuan3, Xiangyu Wang3, Hongliang Wang3, Songwei Li3, and Lin Zhou2*
 
Tausch’s goat grass (Aegilops tauschii Coss.) is a troublesome and widespread weed that poses a significant challenge in winter wheat fields. Understanding the germination biology of Tausch’s goat grass is crucial for predicting its potential distribution area. To better understand its germination and emergence ecology, this study evaluated the effects of various environmental factors on seed germination and seedling emergence in laboratory and greenhouse experiments. Seed germinations were settled across a range of constant temperatures (5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 27 °C), and optimal germination rates were observed at 5, 15, 20, and 25 °C. The light and pH had no discernible effect on germination. Germination in this study was inhibited at osmotic potentials ranging from 0 to -0.7 MPa. The seedling emergence rate was highest (100%) when seeds were not buried (depth of 0 cm), emergence gradually declined while the depth of burial increased, no seedlings emerge at the depth of 6 cm. Those implied that deep plowing could effectively limit germination and emergence of this species. This study provides valuable insights into the germination conditions of Tausch’s goat grass and lays the groundwork for scientific prediction and control measures.
Keywords: Aegilops tauschii, biological characteristics, emergence, germination, weed.
1Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Postdoctoral Research Base, Postdoctoral Innovation & Practice Base, Xinxiang 453003, China.
2Henan Agricultural University, Postdoctoral Research Station, Zhengzhou 450002, China.
3Henan Institute of Science and Technology, College of Resources and Environment, Xinxiang 453003, China.
*Corresponding author (zhangpei0519@126.com; zhoulinhenau@163.com).