A model to predict seed number per pod from early pod growth rate in pea (Pisum sativumL.)

Seed number per pod in pea is variable. After fertilization, any number of ovules may abort in the pod. This paper describes an analysis of the relationship between pod growth and seed abortion rate. Pod dry weight was highly correlated to pod length before the final stage in seed abortion. By measuring pod length during the period of seed formation and counting the seeds in the same pods at the end of this period, we show that seed number per pod was correlated with early pod elongation. From these data we propose and test a model for predicting seed number per pod from early pod elongation rates.