Discussion
We identified differences in seed size and weight, germination under different temperatures, and osmotic potential among P. hysterophorus Israeli populations. Differences across generations may arise due to the transgenerational effects. Our results, may shed light on the germination abilities of P. hysterophorus populations and provide vital insight into understanding the invasive capabilities of this highly noxious weed.
Methods
Seeds collected from five locations across Israel were germinated and plants were grown in pollen-proof cages under uniform conditions to produce the progeny populations. Spatial parameters, weight and germination under different environmental conditions were recorded for field and progeny populations.
Results
Seeds originating from field populations were significantly smaller and lighter than seeds of the progeny populations. Germination occurred in the range of 10°C to 30°C (ToTo<math><mrow><msub><mi>T</mi><mi>o</mi></msub></mrow></math> ranges from 19°C to 22.3°C, TbTb<math><mrow><msub><mi>T</mi><mi>b</mi></msub></mrow></math> ranged from 9°C to 15°C, TcTc<math><mrow><msub><mi>T</mi><mi>c</mi></msub></mrow></math> ranged from 24 ℃℃<math><mo>℃</mo></math> to 30.5°C), depending on generation and population. A water potential-based model was developed to estimate germination under different soil water content using specific parameters (bb<math><mi>b</mi></math> - slope, dd<math><mi>d</mi></math> - upper limit, ee<math><mi>e</mi></math> - infliction point). The model suggests a correlation between germination and water potential. Indeed, reduced germination was recorded for the lower water potentials especially for the progeny populations. Spatial parameters, weight and germination under different environmental conditions were recorded for field and progeny populations.