EFFECT OF VARYING MAGNETIC FREQUENCIES TO THE ORYZA SATIVA L. VAR. IR8 SEED GERMINATION AND SEEDLING DEVELOPMENT

This study aims to investigate the influence of 10 varying frequencies (5.0 × 10-3 to 1.0 × 102 Hz) of alternating magnetic fields on Oryza sativa L. var. IR8 seed germination and seedling development. Methods:Oryza sativa L. var. IR8 seeds were exposed once to varying frequencies of alternating magnetic fields generated by a Helmholtz coil system. Seed germination was evaluated through a 5-day daily cumulative percentage of germination count, corrected germination rate index (CGRI) calculations, α-amylase assay, and apparent amylose content determination, whereas seed development was evaluated through its shoot and root growth rates and fresh and dry weights. Results:Results showed that, with varying frequencies of magnetic fields, it promoted an early onset of seed germination and a faster germination rate, but in its final seed germination, the α-amylase activity and amylose content were not affected. Shoot and root growth rates and fresh and dry weights were likewise found to be not significantly different from its control. Conclusion: Alternating magnetic fields may serve as a beneficial pretreatment to break the rice seed dormancy and increase its rate of seed germination.