135

Magneto-Priming: A Novel Technique Towards Improved Seed Germinability

be beneficial in various aspects over the conventional means. Among the

various approaches, seed pretreatment with a magnetic field has been recog­

nized as a novel and non-invasive dry seed priming procedure with proven

beneficial influence on radicle emergence and seedling vigor in a variety

of crops. In recent years, many researchers have reported that seed magne­

tization with low-to-medium level magnetic field (MF) can favorably alter

metabolic activities that occur during seed germination and early seedling

stage (Anand et al., 2019; Bhardwaj et al., 2012; Shine et al., 2011; Sunita

et al., 2015). Further, the application of biophysical factors like MF would

lower the risk of the generation of toxins in plants or plant products leading to

food and environmental protection (Aladjadjiyan, 2007). By comprehending

the various interactions between EMF and physio-biochemical processes in

plants, MF has been found to be a feasible alternative to chemical-based

approaches of seed priming (Aladjadjiyan, 2002; Belyavskaya, 2004; Da

Silva & Dobránszki, 2016).

The extreme application of EMFs with the progress of various domains

of science has changed the world over the last few decades and has raised

questions on the biological effects of this field. Plants are exposed to MF to a

greater extent than any other species due to the extensive and excessive use

of magnets like different kinds of static magnets and different electromagnets

in domestic appliances, medical equipment, industrial equipment, vehicles,

and communication devices, etc. (Athari et al., 2008). Further, with such

technological advancements, the strength of the geomagnetic field is rising

beyond the level of 50–60 µT that can affect seed germination and growth of

plants (Zhadin, 2001). Thus, plants development would either be positively

or negatively affected as a consequence of such constant exposure to varying

strength or intensity of natural MF (Kordas, 2002).

The effect of MF on plants was first recorded by Krylov (1960). They

were also the first to suggest the term magnetotropism ascribing the auxin-

like effect of MFs on seed germination. The observation on the root-growth

response of a variety of plants suggests that some intrinsic factors must have

been involved before the manifestation of tropism (Pittman, 1962). Such

opinions have also led to the thought that the root-growth response of plants

would be magnetotropic or geo-magnetotropic rather than directly helio­

tropic. In the last 10 to 15 years, plant science has made significant progress

in understanding the impact of MF on seed germination and subsequent

growth or development of crop plants. It is now evident that pre-sowing

exposure of seeds to the magnetic field reduces planting costs by signifi­

cantly increasing germination rates as well as establishing good plant stand