Changes in Water Dynamics and Vigor of Recalcitrant Phoebe chekiangensis Seeds during Desiccation by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance and Transmission Electron Microscopy

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The authors sought to show the dehydration process of Phoebe chekiangensis seeds during desiccation, a recalcitrant seed. This is a very relevant topic, but a gap in the literature does not have data on how long a dry recalcitrant seed can withstand storage and germination. I missed evaluating germination at different storage times, as I believe this part would complement the work. The work also shows the average germination time. The introduction and discussion are too long. In addition, I made many adjustments throughout the manuscript, which is attached.

Comments for author File: Comments.pdf

Comments on the Quality of English Language

The English is very poor. An extensive English correction is necessary. I have pointed out some problems. Please pay attention.

Author Response

The response letter can be found in the word file uploaded below.

Author Response File: Author Response.docx

Reviewer 2 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The topic of manuscript is very interesting and has enough relevance. The authors studied a number of parameters in seeds during their natural desiccation. Correlation analysis was applied. The aims and objectives are clearly stated, the results are well described, and the conclusions correspond to the objectives. The authors have applied a number of valid techniques in the study. the list of sources is sufficient.  

Comments to authers

1. We suggest expanding the keywords by adding the name of the species.

2. The authors have not clearly stated the scientific novelty of this study in the Introduction. Please provide this information.

3. The authors do not sufficiently discuss the results of the correlation analysis. We would like the authors to try to make assumptions about the reasons for the correlations found.

Author Response

The response letter can be found in the word file uploaded below.

Author Response File: Author Response.docx

Reviewer 3 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The manuscript “Changes in water dynamics and vigor of recalcitrant Phoebe chekiangensis seeds during desiccation by nuclear magnetic resonance and transmission electron microscopy” deals with the vigor of Phoebe chekiangensis seeds during desiccation using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technology is a significant contribution to the understanding of seed physiology, particularly for recalcitrant seeds. Before the final decision is made, the manuscript need to be revised accordingly.  

 

Comments

·       The study's objective to analyze seed vigor in relation to moisture content and its monitoring using NMR technology need to be clearly defined in the introduction section.

·       What were the key limitations of this study, and how might they impact the results? How does the study's methodology compare to other methods used in seed desiccation research?

·       The study examines seed vigor during desiccation but does not address the long-term viability of seeds post-desiccation. Understanding how these seeds perform after rehydration would provide additional practical insights for seed storage and conservation. The author can discuss this in the discussion section.

·       Can the changes in seed size be quantitatively correlated with moisture loss? What were the criteria for defining high and low seed vigor in this study?

·       Improved visualization of data (e.g., graphs, charts) could enhance the clarity of results. Kinldy improves the figures.

·       LN 59-68: Please improve the language.

·       The distinction between free, immobile, and bound water and their changes during drying are well-articulated and essential for understanding seed desiccation dynamics.

·       Please check all formula and units of the parameters taken in the experiment.

·       Figure 2 need to be explained in brief.

·       The may conduct experiments in future under controlled environmental conditions to isolate the effects of temperature, humidity, and other factors on seed desiccation and vigor.

·       Improve the qulaity of Fig. 6.

·       I would appreciate the author that they have nicely compiled the data and presented it accordinly in the manuscript.

 

 

 

 

Comments on the Quality of English Language

Minor english editing is required.

Author Response

The response letter can be found in the word file uploaded below.

Author Response File: Author Response.docx

Round 2

Reviewer 1 Report

Comments and Suggestions for Authors

The revised version is undoubtedly much better and clearer. After some minor adjustments in the manuscript document, it can be accepted.

Comments for author File: Comments.pdf

Comments on the Quality of English Language

few corrections

Author Response

Please see the attachment.

Author Response File: Author Response.docx