LAUSR

ABSTRACT Th e eff ects of alternating and constant temperatures and light regimes, osmotic and salt stress and pH were tested on seed germination in four populations of Eryngium caeruleum . Laboratory experiments revealed that the four populations exhibited diff erent responses to alternating temperature and light conditions. Alternating temperature and photoperiod had a greater positive eff ect on seed germination compared to complete darkness. Th e optimal constant temperature within 10 oC to 15 oC for seed germination of each population was determined in a light/dark photoperiod. Seed germination severely decreased under water stress and was completely inhibited at -0.8 MPa osmotic potential. Saline stress sharply decreased germination percentage. Germination was restricted by pH lower and higher than 5 and 8, respectively. Th e information obtained from this study helps to fi ll the gap of knowledge about seed germination requirements of E. caeruleum and enhance our understanding of this species distribution and its potential to develop in stressful and/or new habitats.