Establishment of an in vitro micropropagation protocol for cantua volcánica (Polemoniaceae): A potential ornamental plant of Peru

Abstract

Cantua volcánica (Polemoniaceae) is a species endemic to Arequipa, Peru. This plant, which has an ornamental potential, is endangered by habitat loss due to anthropogenic pressures and climate change. A protocol was developed for in vitro micropropagation using nodal explants, allowing its massive propagation in vitro. For the establishment stage, 1/2 MS was determined to be the best culture medium. In the proliferation stage, the growth regulator balance that showed the highest survival rate was MS + IBA 1 ppm + BA 0.5 ppm. Different combinations of NAA-AIB were tested for rooting; MS + NAA 0.005 ppm + IBA 0.005 ppm was determined as the best medium. In the last stage, 65% of in vitro plants were acclimatized using vermiculite as substrate and irrigating with 50% Hoagland mineral solution.