Physiological Maturity Determination of Wild Banana ( Musa acuminata subsp. malaccensis (Ridl.) N.W.Simmonds) for Seed Conservation

The seed conservation and germination techniques for wild banana seeds are less understood, making this research crucial for developing high-quality seeds that can support sustainable banana breeding efforts. This study examined the reproductive biology and physiological maturity of Musa acuminata subsp. malaccensis to understand seed germination and seedling vigor in order to enhance banana breeding. This research focused on identifying the ideal harvest period to obtain seeds with optimal viability and how ethylene application affects seed quality. Wild banana accessions from the Cibinong Germplasm Collection were used in this study. Ethylene was used to accelerate fruit ripening. Observations were made on the vegetative and generative growth phases and fruit morphology. The physical and physiological qualities of wild banana seeds, M. acuminata subsp. malaccensis can be improved by harvesting between 71-90 days after receptive (DAR). Harvesting during this period increases seed viability and vigor compared to seeds harvested at 50-70 DAR, which showed the highest leachate conductivity value of 968.79 μS g −1 .