Encapsulation and Regeneration of in vitro Derived Zephyranthes grandiflora: an Effective Way for Exchange of Germplasm

Abstract

An attempt was made to develop a protocol for the preparation of synthetic seeds using in vitro regenerated, genetically identical bulbs of Zephyranthes grandiflora. Encapsulation was standardized with 4% sodium alginate and 1% sucrose for uniform bulb size with high conversion potential. An optimum storage temperature was found to be 4 degrees C. Synthetic seeds were germinated in MS medium supplemented with benzyladenine (2 mg dm(-3)) and rooted in the presence of indole-3-butyric acid (1 mg dm(-3)) in MS medium. Well-rooted plants were transferred to the experimental field with 80% survival after hardening. This study elucidated an efficient technique for exchange of germplasm and ex situ conservation method.