Brassinosteroids influences in vitro regeneration using shoot tip sections of Cymbidium elegans lindl

Abstract

This investigation highlights for the first time the application of 24-epibrassinolide in the micropropagation of orchids. Successful initiation of protocorm-like bodies and in vitro regeneration of Cymbidium elegans was achieved using shoot tip sections and 24-epibrassinolide supplemented Mitra et al. (1976) basal medium. The highest percentage of explants (91.0%) producing PLBs (24.0±2.1) was recorded on 4.0 μM 24-epibrassinolide supplemented basal medium. All the newly formed protocorm-like-bodies survived and after nearly 12 weeks, small bud-like structures formed healthy shoots. Shoots produced roots when cultured on basal medium supplemented with 2.0 μM triacontanol. The well-rooted shoots were transferred to pots containing charcoal chips, coconut husk and broken tiles (2:2:1) and 100% survival rate was achieved. Our results for the first time demonstrate that 24-epibrassinolide provided compelling evidence that they can be effectively used in the micropropagation of orchids. © 2007 Asian Network for Scientific Information.