Effect of seed size and genotype on germination characteristic and seed nutrient content of wheat

In order to study the effects of seed size and genotype on nutrient uptake and growth characteristic of wheat, a field experiment was conducted in a split plot randomized block design with genotypes as main plots and seed size as subplots, with four blocks at the Roseworthy Campus, the University of Adelaide in 2010. Two experiments were designed (1) a laboratory experiment with seeds germinated in wet filter paper for 14 days to determine coleoptile length (2) a pot experiment with three harvest times to determine the effect of seed size and genotype on seedling vigor, the relation between seed nutrient  content. The wheat genotypes used were Burunga, Excalibur, Janz, Machete, RAC655, Trident, Spear, Tatiara, Yarralinka (Triticum aestivum L.) and Yallaroi (Triticum durum). Obtained results showed that genotype and seed size had significant effect on total nutrient content, coleoptile length, emergence efficiency and root and shot dry matter production. Tatiara had more amount of Fe, Cu and K concentration in wheat seed among all genotype. Maximum amount of B, Mn, Mg and Na were observed inJanz, Yarralinka, Machete and Yallaroi. Among all genotype, large coleoptile length was recorded in Spear and small of it was observed in Yallaroi and among seed sizes large seeds had maximum amount of coleoptile length. Tatiara, Exculibur, Spear and RAC655 had a significantly greater seedling growth (shoot and root) compared to other genotype. Plant grown from large seeds compared to those grown from small seeds was more vigorous and produces greater dry matter for all genotypes.   Key words: Seed size, genotype, nutrient content, germination characteristic, wheat.