Studies on the flooding tolerance of soybean seed: varietal differences

To evaluate seed tolerance of soybean seed to flooding, a screening method by soaking seeds at 25 degree C for 4 days has been established. Of 730 varieties tested, many from South America, India and Southeast Asia appeared highly tolerant to pre-germination flooding. Seed flooding tolerance correlated with seed coat color. Seeds with black colored coat exhibited high tolerance, and some varieties with black seed coat germinated well even after 10 days soaking at 25 degree C. All yellow seeds failed completely to germinate after 8 days of soaking. (DBO)