Optimization of Germination Requirement and Seed Production of d-type Vaccinium my

Abstract

Principado de Asturias develops programs and strategies to recover and conserve its natural resources. For the successful implementation of development goals the policy framework attaches significant importance to the natural resources available in the region, including fauna and indigenous flora recovery. The capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus cantabricus) from Northern Spain, an endangered bird that inhabits coniferous forests with an understory of Vaccinium myrtillus, is the smallest of those living in Europe and is a relic from the last glacial period. Seed dormancy is common among temperate zone bird-dispersed plants. Moreover, germination of seeds collected during and after the fruiting season might vary due to development of dormancy. Several studies conducted recently have shown a relationship between the presence of V. myrtillus and T. urogallus survival. Therefore we developed a seed extraction system for bilberry (V. myrtillus), as well as an efficient system for producing around 200.000 wild plants. Subsequently, these will be planted in strategic wild areas where there is reason to believe that the capercaillie survives. This work studied the influence of GA3, imbibition time and temperature on bilberry production. The results indicate differences between germination rates that vary from 50% to 91% in the most efficient treatments. Besides, there were clear differences in germination among seeds that came from different provenances. Seeds from Somiedo Park germinated faster than those from Redes Park.