PLANT CELL BIOTECHNOLOGY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

Cymbidium eburneum Lindl. is a rare and threatened species of the family Orchidaceae. Its vivid, lively and fragrant flowers are in high demand in the commercial market. Due to mass exploitation and a slow rate of natural germination, the orchid’s population is declining and is in need of conservation. The study develops a protocol for in-vitro mass propagation of Cymbidium eburneum from immature seed pods using MS (Murashige and Skoog) basal media enhanced with or deprived of PGRs (plant growth regulators) – GA₃ (Gibberellic acid), KIN (Kinetin), IBA (Indole-3-butyric acid) and NAA (Naphthalene acetic acid) in different combinations and proportions. Cultures treated with a combination of MS + GA₃ (0.2mg/L) + 0.3mg/L KIN showed the optimum result for parameters such as seed germination, PLB formation, shoot proliferation and development, breadth of leaves, etc. Plant height, leaf length measured best in culture supplemented with 0.2mg/l GA₃ to MS media. Further root initiation and development were best seen in the cultures when transferred to MS basal media enhanced with 0.2mg/L GA₃ +0.3mg/L IBA. The length of the root measured longest when MS media was enhanced with 0.2mg/L NAA and diameter when MS basal medium was enhanced with 0.3mg/L IBA. For hardening the well-rooted plants, Vermiculite and Perlite were better options. This protocol will provide a viable solution in the conservation and mass commercial production of this rare orchid.