X-RAY: CHARACTERIZATION OF Ginkgo biloba L. SEEDS USING DIGITAL AND MANUAL MEASUREMENTS

The aim of this paper was to: a) verify if digital radiographic image measurements of G. biloba seeds could replace those obtained with a manual caliper; b) determine the degree of seed development through digitally measuring the air chamber of the seed and, c) make a radiographic pattern to characterize the seed species according to its anatomical and morphological structure, identify physical damage and characterize the species according to physical variables. In order to draw the radiographic patter, the seeds were submitted to different treatments: seed imbibition in rolled paper at 20 oC for 48 hours; artificial damage by puncturing dry and imbibed seeds; artificial damage by fracturing dry and imbibed seeds. Seed anatomy structures were measured with a digital caliper and a manual caliper. The digital radiographic measurements could: a) replace the measurements taken with a manual caliper; b) obtain measurements that a manual caliper cannot supply; c) measure the air chamber in order to determine the level of seed filling; d) characterize the species by its anatomical and morphological structures, detect insect damage or fracture and make a radiographic pattern of G. biloba seeds.