Application of statistical methods to the results of an investigation previously published has shown that viability, in the case of common wheat, may be estimated fairly closely from a determination of total and thermostable catalase; a determination which may be completed within the course of a few hours as compared with the regular germination test requiring 12 days. Much work is yet required, however, to put this method on a practical routine basis.It is believed that some further light is thrown upon the biochemistry of ripening in the wheat kernel.