Effect of smoke-derived compounds on the germination of Cerrado ground layer species

Background Smoke is a key environmental cue for seed germination of species in fire-prone ecosystems. Several smoke-derived compounds influence this process by regulating reactive oxygen species and interacting with plant hormones. We aimed to evaluate the effects of three smoke-derived compounds on the germination of Cerrado ground layer species. We tested cellulose-derived karrikin 1 (KAR ₁ ), lignin-derived hydroquinone (HYD), and mandelonitrile cyanohydrin (MAN) under controlled laboratory conditions. Results Different concentrations of KAR ₁ and MAN were effective in stimulating germination, while HYD at the highest concentration was detrimental to seed germination. All tested compounds were effective in increasing the germination percentage of at least one species and decreasing the time to 50% germination of the grass Sorghastrum minarum . The response to smoke-derived compounds was species-specific and varied depending on their concentration. Conclusion It was concluded that the germination response of some Cerrado ground-layer plants is stimulated or inhibited in the presence of smoke-derived compounds, depending on their concentration. The efficacy of smoke-derived compounds should be evaluated in a range of ecological contexts. From a management perspective, the utilization of effective compounds for each species has the potential to enhance the success of seed-based restoration.