Abstract
Dormancy characteristics and emergence force in relation to seed weight has been studied in two varieties (typical var. and var. sykesii) of Indigofera glandulosa, having similar growth patterns. Inverse relationship holds good between seed weight and intensity of impermeability. Different degrees of correlation are depicted depending upon method of breaking impermeability. Breakage by natural parameter (simulated field conditions) for assessment of intensity of dormancy is significant per se in view of ecological orientation and homogeneous values of correlation obtained herein. Time of emergence is directly proportional to depth of soil from which seedlings emerge. The emergence force is closely related with the seed weight. The variation in emergence force among the seeds of both varieties is due to their respective seed weights. Higher emergence force by virtue of heavier seeds is an asset to typical var. distributed mostly in arable fields where seeds are buried due to cultivation practices as compared to var. sykesii distributed mostly in grass fields. Seed size has therefore important ecological significance in preservation of habitat due to, (1) relative emergence force of seeds in relation to habitat. (2) variable intensity of dormancy of seeds.
