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¹ University of Carthage, National Institute of Agronomic Research of Tunisia, Laboratory of Horticulture, Hèdi Karray Street, 2049 Ariana, Tunisia DOI : 10.16882/HortiS.1896521 Viewed : 69 - Downloaded : 44 Seed longevity is a critical determinant of crop performance and germplasm conservation, hovewer genotype-dependent variability remains poorly documented in pepper (Capsicum annuum L.). This study investigated the impact of a decade of storage on the germination performance of three Tunisian genotypes (Nabeul, Mahdia, and Kairouan). Seed lots harvested in 2013 and 2023 were evaluated under controlled conditions using viability, germination speed and vigor parameters. Long-term storage resulted in significant reductions in viability, germination rate, and vigor across genotypes indicated ecting pronounced physiological deterioration. Fresh seeds exhibited consistently higher germination percentage, capacity, speed index, coefficient of velocity, and germination vigor index values, together with a markedly lower mean germination time. Clear genotype-specific responses were observed: Nabeul maintained high germination and vigor regardless of storage duration, whereas Mahdia showed excellent performance when fresh but severe deterioration after 10 years; Kairouan displayed intermediate sensitivity. These findings highlight substantial genetic variation in seed aging tolerance and underscore the value of long-lived genotypes such as Nabeul for seed conservation, breeding programs, and long-term germplasm management. Keywords : Capsicum annuum Physiological deterioration Seed conservation Viability Vigor index