Ultra-dry seed storage: A novel technology for enhancing seed longevity

Abstract

Ultra-dry storage, also called low moisture content storage, it is a technique for decreasing seed moisture content to below 5-6 per cent using desiccants. Desiccant is a hygroscopic substance that induces or sustains a state of dryness (desiccation) in its vicinity. The most common desiccant is silica and other common desiccants include activated charcoal, bentonite, calcium sulphate, calcium chloride and zeolites. Ultra-dry storage, also called low moisture content storage, is a technique for decreasing seed moisture content to below 5- 6 % using different methods and then stored hermetically at ambient, but preferably cooler temperatures. Some studies have confirmed that low moisture content storage can not only be used to maintain the quality of seeds, but also improve their storability (Wang et al., 2005). It can greatly reduce the cost of constructing and maintaining the gene bank (Zheng et al., 1998). Ultra-dry seed storage technology is the one of an ideal method to store seeds for longer period by using desiccants in an air tight container without seed quality reduction. Hence, it is a suitable technology to low volume seeds, seed companies and seed banks to store precious seed material for a longer period.