In vitro plantlet regeneration study for in vitro conservation in Curculigo orchioides - an endangered medicinal plant

Abstract

In vitro studies on Curculigo orchioides Gaertn. (Hypoxidaceae) was undertaken to devise a protocol for in vitro conservation of this endangered species. Fresh underground tubers with shoot apices were used to initiate cultures. Later the in vitro derived leaves and roots were used as explants on MS medium supplemented with 8.87µM BA, to obtain multiple shoots. Callus phase was avoided to maintain true-to type cultures and direct encourage regeneration. Simultaneous rooting enabled successful establishment extra vitrum, with 100% survival rates. In vitro conservation was accomplished at 100 C and cultures could be maintained for a minimum period of 1 year without an intermediate subculture.