The research studied methodologies for the electrical conductivity test, to verify its sensitivity for identifying different vigor levels in arugula seed lots. Five seed lots each from the Rucula Cultivada and Rucula Gigante were used. The following tests were employed: standard germination, first germination count, seedling emergence and variations in the electrical conductivity test (25 or 50 seeds imbibed in 25mL, 50mL or 75mL in water; at 20oC, 25oC and 30oC; for 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16 and 24 hours). It was observed that the seed soaking period can be reduced to 4 hours and the water volume can be reduced to 25 or 50mL. The use of 50 seeds presented a lower variation coefficient and the best temperatures were 25oC and 30oC. It was concluded that the electrical conductivity test for arugula seeds can be run using 50 seeds in 50mL of water for 4 hours, at 25oC.
Eruca sativa; physiological potential; electrical conductivity; seed quality
