Clonal microplant production, morphological evaluation and genetic stability of Dendrocalamus asper (Schult. & Schult.) Backer ex. K. Heyneke

Abstract

Bamboo species have many commercial applications, considering that homogeneous plantations (formed from clonal plants) are essential to high sustainable biomass production. The cloning of selected plants on an industrial scale through in vitro cultivation has many advantages, being important for the supply of plants in sufficient quantity and quality to meet commercial demand. The control of the cloning is the basis for an industrial scale, and its knowledge can optimize the process. This work aimed to evaluate the cloning of Dendrocalamus asper selected plant through micropropagation. Morphological features by scanning electron microscopy and genetic stability with ISSR molecular markers were evaluated. Four times of immersion in sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) on in vitro establishment of nodal segments were evaluated. The established explants were transferred to a culture medium that was supplemented with three concentrations of 6- benzylaminopurine (BAP). Three concentrations of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) to the in vitro adventitious rooting were evaluated. NaOCl application for 10 min resulted in 71.4 % of establishment in 30 d. Supplementation of the culture medium with 2.0 and 3.0 mg L -1 BAP de resulted in the highest averages for multiplication and elongation stages. The formation of adventitious roots occurred with 4.0 mg L -1 IBA of supplementation. Micropropagated plants showed normal morphological features and genetic stability, confirming the cloning of selected plant.