Abstract:The seeds and embryos of Zea mays L. cv. Yuedan 9117 were used to determine the acquisition of desiccation tolerance and germinability during maize seed development. Physiological maturity of seeds was at 42 days after pollination (DAP). The embryos obtained germinability during 14-21 DAP, and the desiccation tolerance of embryos was obtained during 25-28 DAP, desiccation tolerance still being strengthened after 28 DAP. The changes in electrolyte leakage rate of seeds and embryos during development of maize seeds might suggest that there was a close relationship among desiccation tolerance，membran e development， and protection of membrane injury．Desiccation is beneficial to germ ination of seeds and embryos during the development of maize．