Seed Germination Ecology and Longevity of the Invasive Aquatic Plant Sagittaria platyphylla

Abstract

Sagittaria platyphylla (Engelm.) J.G.Sm. is an invasive aquatic plant of concern in Australian freshwater systems. Understanding its seed germination ecology and seedbank longevity is critical for effective management. This study examined environmental influences on germination and longevity through three controlled experiments. Seeds germinated between 17 and 29 °C, with optimal germination (96 ± 2%) at 21 °C under a 12/12 h light/dark photoperiod. High germination (93–99%) also occurred under light in diurnal regimes of 15/5 °C, 25/15 °C, and 30/20 °C. In a burial experiment, seedlings emerged only from surface-sown seeds (76 ± 4%); no emergence occurred from buried seeds, though viability remained high, peaking at 98 ± 2% at 2.5 cm depth. A controlled aging test indicated a 50% viability loss (P50) in 36 days under warm, moist laboratory conditions. Based on established criteria, S. platyphylla produces short-lived seeds, which are likely to persist in the substrate seedbank for <1 to 3 years. The strong light dependence of germination suggests that sediment disturbance, which exposes buried seeds to light, could significantly enhance recruitment, highlighting the importance of minimizing disturbance for effective long-term management.