Axenically culturing the bryophytes: establishment and propagation of the moss Hypnum cupressiforme Hedw.(Bryophyta, Hypnaceae) in in vitro conditions

Abstract

The study gives the fi rst report of in vitro culture of the pleurocarpous moss Hypnum cupressiforme and on the problems of axenicaly culturing this bryophyte and the conditions for establishment and propagation. Problems of surface sterilization are elaborated regarding sporophyte vs. gametophyte. Th e infl uence of nutrient, light length and temperature on diff erent developmental stages is discussed. Th e best conditions for micro-propagation from shoots are slightly lower temperature (18-20°C), on MS-sugar free medium irrelevant of day length. Th is moss is a counterpart of some rare and endangered mosses from the same genus and data presented should be taken into account of conservation and propagation of its counterparts as well. Its propagation is valuable for horticultural, pharmaceutical and bioindication purposes, as well.