In vitro conservation of apical meristem-tip of Melia azedarach L. (Meliaceae) under slow-growth conditions: (with 1 table & 2 figures)

Abstract

Studies on in vitro storage of Melia azedarach -"paradise tree"- under slow-growth conditions were carried out to develop an efficient protocol for the conservation of the genetic diversity of the crop. The response to different growth retardation treatments was examined using clone E. In vitro cultures of apical meristem-tips (0.2-0.3 mm in length) could be effectively maintained for 12 months at 4ºC on ¼ MS basal medium supplemented with 0.5 µM BA. Shoot proliferation was observed on 67 % of the recovered apical meristem-tips, after 12 months at 4ºC. Rooting of the regenerated shoots was achieved by reculturing them on MS + 17.5 µM IBA, during 4 days and subsequently transferred to MS medium lacking growth-regulators for 30 days. Complete plants were successfully transferred to the greenhouse.