Celia Bentaleb, Fatima Zohra Bendimered-Mouri, Zoheir Mehdadi, Ali Latreche, Khadidja Smahi

Effect of storage conditions on the germination of Mentha × rotundifolia seeds from western Algeria

Abstract This study focuses on the ex situ conservation of Mentha × rotundifolia (L.) Huds. (Lamiaceae), a spontaneous aromatic and medicinal plant from western Algeria. It has been little studied from a physiological and reproductive perspective. It requires conservation attention, as its regeneration in the wild is difficult due to anthropogenic pressures such as overgrazing, trampling, uprooting and habitat disturbance. This study aimed to determine the effect of different temperature regimes on seed viability during short-term storage in a seed bank. After determining the optimal temperature and light conditions for post-harvest germination of the seeds, three samples were stored separately at -20°C, 5°C, and room temperature (20°C to 25°C) and their viability was assessed after 6-, 14-, and 18-month storage. The germination results showed that the seeds were positively photoblastic, required a post-maturation period of at least three months, and had an optimum germination temperature of 30°C. Storage conditions (temperature and duration) significantly affected seed viability. The best germination rate (100%) was obtained after 6 monthsʼ storage at 5°C. For longer storage, the recommended temperature is -20°C. This study should contribute to a better understanding of the conservation conditions for this species and provide essential information for improved management of this a regionally threatened plant.

Doi https://doi.org/10.35513/Botlit.2026.1.4

Keywords ex situ conservation, ex situ seed bank, germinative performance, Lamiaceae, seed viability, storage duration, storage temperature.

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