Analyzing the Composition of Maple Seeds and Samaras: A Botanist's Perspective

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the composition analysis of maple tree seeds, specifically from the species Acer saccharinum. Key findings from R. S. Anderson's 1918 study reveal that the seeds contain 41.94% starch, 27.50% protein, and 15.78% sucrose, among other components. The inquirer seeks additional information on enzyme contents, which was not covered in Anderson's analysis. Recommendations include contacting the National Seed Laboratory for historical data on tree seed analyses.

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  • Understanding of plant biochemistry
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  • Knowledge of enzyme functions in plants
  • Research skills for accessing historical botanical literature
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  • Research enzyme content analysis in seeds
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Botanists, plant biochemists, and researchers interested in seed composition and analysis, particularly those focusing on Acer species and their nutritional profiles.

Insanity
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Was curious if any botanists had information about the composition and analysis of the maple tree seeds or samara?

Googling has yielded little so far, though I did find an article published in 1918 by R. S. Anderson, and provided quite a bit, but I was also interested in enzyme contents, which his analysis did not provide any results.

His Results for the seeds from Acer saccharinum:

Code: 
Starch		41.94%
Protein		27.50%
Sucrose		15.78%
Pentosans	 4.07%
Galactan	 1.08%
Crude Fiber	 2.36%
Crude Fat	 3.55%
Ash		 5.01%

He does have results from the analysis of the ash and of the wings, but really interested in just the seed portion.

Any assistance is appreciated.
 
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These guys:
http://www.nsl.fs.fed.us/

used to have a library (30+ years ago) of very old papers on tree seed analyses and germination requirments of those seeds. Try contacting them, give them the exact species you want, not just maple, and information you need.
 
Thanks, sent an email.