New Findings Reveal Shorter Lifespan of Tropical Crop Seeds in Genebanks

Study on Longevity of Tropical Crop Seeds in Storage

According to НВ — Техно: Researchers in Australia have uncovered that the viable storage period for seeds of six key tropical crops in genebanks is much shorter than previously estimated. The investigation analyzed 3,861 seed batches, including:

• sorghum (Sorghum bicolor)
• common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris)
• mung bean (Vigna radiata)
• soybean (Glycine max)
• pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan)
• adzuki bean (Vigna angularis)

Some of the seed samples dated back to the 1960s, providing long-term data for analysis.

Key Outcomes of the Research

The study found that mung bean seeds exhibited the highest longevity, with one batch maintaining at least 90% germination after 45 years of storage. Sorghum also showed notable durability, ranking second among the crops evaluated. Common bean and soybean seeds demonstrated the ability to remain viable for several decades. Conversely, pigeon pea seeds showed the poorest longevity, with only four batches retaining over 85% germination after 36 years. Adzuki bean seeds had the shortest projected lifespan, estimated at just 17.4 years.

Previous models had predicted germination testing intervals of 2,901 years for sorghum and 2,075 years for mung bean seeds, but this study challenges those optimistic projections. The data indicates that under optimal storage conditions-sealed packaging at 15% moisture and -20 °C temperature-germination rates for all tested seeds fall below 85% within 20 to 40 years.

Katherine Baum, one of the lead researchers, stated: "Our real-time evidence shows that seed viability for all species drops below 85% within 20 to 40 years, even under ideal storage conditions."

These findings highlight the urgent need to reassess current seed conservation methods for tropical crops to better maintain their longevity.

Understanding the true lifespan of these seeds is critical for agricultural practices and biodiversity preservation policies worldwide. Given the importance of tropical crops in global food security, this knowledge supports the development of more effective strategies for conserving and utilizing genetic resources. Additionally, it encourages further research in agronomy and plant genetics aimed at strengthening the resilience of future food systems.