In vitro multiplication of local cultivars of banana (Musa spp.) through shoot-tip culture

Abstract

In vitro shoot-tip culture is a suitable alternative to the traditional methods of propagation of banana (Musa spp). In the present study, ten banana cultivars of the group AAA, AAB and ABB were tested for in vitro multiplication. The study revealed that shoot-tip culture technique can be used for mass propagation of the local cultivars of banana. A variation in multiplication rate was seen not only among different genomic groups but also among cultivars of the same group: highest multiplication was observed in Binkehel (AAA) while the lowest was in Alukehel (ABB) and Suwandel (AAB). Thus, multiplication rate appears to be cultivar dependant. The study also showed that subculturing enhances shoot multiplication, especially after the second subculture.