Impacts of Rapid Desiccation on Oxidative Status, Ultrastructure and Physiological Functions of Syzygium maire (Myrtaceae) Zygotic Embryos in Preparation for Cryopreservation

Syzygium maire is a highly threatened Myrtaceae tree species endemic to New Zealand. Due to its recalcitrant seed storage behaviour, cryopreservation is the only viable long-term ex situ conservation option for this species. This study investigated viability, oxidative stress, thermal properties, and ultrastructure of zygotic embryo axes (EAs) desiccated to various moisture contents (MC).