Characterization of

The identification of morphometric characteristics in seeds is an important tool in the characterization and differentiation of seed lots, used in quality monitoring and control, as well as in the design and selection of equipment in the processing line. Jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) is an oilseed species considered promising for its high-quality oil, good thermal stability, and diverse industrial uses. The objective of this study was to characterize different lots of jojoba seeds using radiographic images and microscopy, identifying parameters that assist in seed classification and contribute to the development of rapid, accurate, and non-destructive methods for evaluating seed quality in this crop. Radiographic analyses allowed the observation of internal seed structures, which, when complemented with image analyses, revealed polymorphism in size, shape, and gray intensity, highlighting lot 5 with superior performance in structural integrity and physiological quality. These findings were consistent with groupings obtained by the UPGMA method, which also demonstrated clear separation between lots based on morphological characteristics. Scanning electron microscopy supplemented radiographic analysis, providing a morphological basis for the internal attributes visualized. Non-destructive seed analysis techniques, such as X-rays, can be used in the characterization and discrimination of seed lots based on morphological characteristics observed in radiographic images.