Liquid nitrogen controls seed-borne chalcids without reducing germination in coriander seeds

Summary Coriander seeds are susceptible to infestation by chalcid wasps which often render the seeds inviable. Control of chalcids in seeds is a prerequisite for supplying coriander germplasm to requestors throughout the world. Levels of chalcid infestation in coriander seed samples produced at the North Central Regional Plant Introduction Station, in Ames, IA, mandated the need to develop an effective control strategy without harming the seeds. Storing the seeds above liquid nitrogen for 16 hours proved effective in killing chalcids at all life stages without reducing seed germination. Results were based on germination tests, seed dissection, chalcid emergence, and digital x-ray images.