Salinity effects on seed germination of the common desert range grass, Panicum turgidum

The response of final germination percentage and germination rate to salinity level and salt type was investigated in Panicum turgidum, which is one of the most widespread, palatable and nutrient rich range grass in the deserts of the Middle East. Seeds collected from the UAE deserts were treated with eight concentrations (ranged from 25-400 mM) of both NaCl and KCl in addition to distilled water (control). The effect of salt concentration on germination rates and percentages was highly significant for the two salts. Germination was significantly reduced and slower at the higher concentrations and was completely inhibited at 300 and 400 mM. High proportions of non germinated seeds at higher salt concentrations germinated when transferred to distilled water, indicating that germination was restricted by osmotic potential, rather than specific ion toxicity and that P. turgidum could be among salt tolerant plants.