In vitro Germination of Ovules and Plant Regeneration for Cloning and Conservation of Rauwolfia serpentina

Abstract

In an era of species extinction, conservation of biological diversity has assumed global importance. Consequently, biodiversity has become a hotly debated topic in the recent years. The Red Data Books of various regions exemplified the magnitude of vanishing genetic diversity of the biosphere and the rates of species extinction that may threaten mankind. Rauwolfia serpentina, a highly significant medicinal plant is one of the 20 endangered plants for which National Gene Bank at NBPGR, IARI, New Delhi has been standardizing protocol for in vitro conservation (Annual report 1997-1998, Department of Biotechnology, Government of India, New Delhi, p.39). In the present paper, a simple biotechnological protocol for plant regeneration from green fertilized ovary pieces cultured on MS basal medium supplemented with CW(10%) both in culture room at 250C ± 30C and at room temperature has been reported which may be helpful in developing tissue culture nursery for supply of plantlets to herbal farmers. The tissue culture protocol may be used for conservation of R. serpentina.