PLANT ECOPHYSIOLOGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE: IMPACTS ON SEED PHYSIOLOGICAL QUALITY AND STRATEGIES FOR AGRICULTURAL SUSTAINABILITY

Plant ecophysiology studies the interactions between plants and the environment, analyzing how external factors influence fundamental processes such as germination, growth and productivity. In the agricultural environment, plants are constantly subject to abiotic stresses, such as water deficit, salinity and temperature variations, which can compromise their development. To face these adversities, they activate physiological and biochemical mechanisms that enable adaptation and tolerance.Climate change exacerbates these challenges, impacting the stability of agricultural systems. In this context, the concept of somathermics, which evaluates the thermal accumulation of crops, becomes essential to predict plant behavior and optimize agronomic practices. In addition, the quality and vigor of seeds are determining factors for productivity. Proper storage preserves their viability, reducing the effects of deterioration caused by temperature, humidity and pathogens. The genetic purity of seeds also has a direct influence on crop performance. Treating seeds before sowing strengthens their resistance to environmental and biological stresses, contributing to greater efficiency and safety in production. Therefore, appropriate management and conservation strategies are essential to ensure the sustainability and success of agriculture.