The Effect of Transport and Storage Conditions on the Viability of Grey Mangrove (Avicennia marina) Seeds Collectors

Abstract

Grey mangrove (Avicennia marina) seeds are the fundamental element for ensuring the sustainability of coastal mangrove ecosystems, as they represent the sole means of propagation for this species. Consequently, their preservation is not merely an agricultural procedure but a vital investment in environmental and climate security. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of transport and storage conditions on the viability of Avicennia marina seeds by comparing three experimental treatments differing in transport duration, humidity, and aeration. Seeds were collected from the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Bahrain, undergoing standardized pre-treatments including soaking and hydration prior to their transfer to Libya. Treatment 1 (T1) involved placing seeds in airtight moist plastic bags to create anaerobic conditions, which resulted in root necrosis and 100% seed mortality. Treatment 2 (T2) subjected the seeds to desiccation for 72 hours, yielding a 50% germination success rate due to dehydration damage to the emerging radicles. Treatment 3 (T3) provided stable humidity and optimal aeration, achieving a 100% germination rate. Statistical validation using One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) confirmed a highly significant effect of aeration, humidity, and desiccation on germination rates. The calculated F-value (60.00) significantly exceeded the critical value, indicating that the variance between treatments far outweighed any random intra-group variance. The p-value (< 0.0001), being substantially lower than the significance threshold (0.05), confirms a high statistical significance of humidity and aeration conditions on germination success. The study concludes that Avicennia marina seeds are acutely sensitive to the balance between moisture and oxygen. Anaerobic immersion or prolonged desiccation leads to a profound decline in seed viability and regenerative capacity.