Seed vigor testing traditionally requires large sample sizes and extended durations. The biospeckle laser (BSL) technique offers a faster, image-based alternative for seed analysis though the standardization of set protocols. This study evaluated the efficiency of local and global BSL analyses in bean seeds (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Two groups of seeds (872 in total) were classified into high- and low-vigor seeds using the emergence test over 800 samples. The BSL test was then applied to 72 seeds (36 per group), analyzing biological activity locally (vascular and embryonic areas) and globally (whole image). BSL analysis detected significant differences between the groups (p < 0.05). Among the methods, the local analysis of the embryonic axis was most effective (F = 44.252, p = 0.000), showing a clearer distinction than the global analysis (F = 19.484, p = 0.000). The vascular area analysis did not yield significant results. These findings highlight the efficiency of the local BSL analysis at the embryonic axis for vigor tests compared to the global analysis. However, it was observed that the selected point in the local analysis affects the reliability of the vigor test. It was a relevant step toward standardization demanding additional tests in other species and varieties.

The biological activity assessment using the dynamic laser speckle (DLS) technique is recognized as a feasible methodology to analyze seeds vigor. Nevertheless, the technique presents the accessibility as a restriction to final users, and the large size of the equipment is a key limitation to allow the portability of the DLS. This work aimed to propose a reduced and portable configuration of the image capture system adopted in the DLS technique for seed analysis applications. A compacted digital camera with an embedded magnification, known by mini microscope, was tested associated with adapted diaphragm as an alternative to the traditional CCD camera, macro zoom and integrated diaphragm. The tests of the proposed adapted mini microscope, in comparison to the traditional configuration, were carried out in the monitoring of drying a paint and in the separation of high-vigor from early-aged seeds. Diaphragms with three different apertures (3, 4 and 5 mm) were evaluated. The results using the 3 mm diameter aperture presented the best performance, like in the case of the traditional CCD camera set. It was possible to follow the drying of a paint activity compared to its loss of weight and to distinguish statistically high-vigor from early-aged seeds at a significance level of 5%. The reliable results of the proposed configuration offered a compact and portable version for using the DLS in seed analysis laboratories.