Abstract
Studies were conducted to assess the role of mucilage in seed desiccation, germination, and its interaction with fungus in
Rough lemon, Sachtion citrumelo and Yuma citrange rootstock seeds of citrus fruits. Water loss percentage was minimum
(with or without mucilage) in Rough lemon seeds (20.28%) and (31.25%) at 25°C and 35°C respectively, with high
germination percentage (3.33%) while maximum water loss (29.50%) was observed in Sachtion citrumelo at 25°C having low
germination percentage (1.33%). However, Yuma citrange showed maximum water loss (34.39%) at 35°C with germination
percentage (1.67%). The pathogenic fungus which infected the seeds was isolated, purified and identified as Aspergillus
niger. Fungus growth on seeds of Rough lemon, Sachtion citrumelo and Yuma citrange was 14.08 mm, 10.65 mm and 9.36
mm, respectively on 6
th day of inoculation. It is obvious from the results that mucilage played significant role in desiccation,
germination as well as fungal habitation.
