Standardizing efficient in vitro surface sterilization protocol for explants of Kankoda (Momordica dioica Roxb.)

Abstract

To standardize the sterilization procedure for leaf and apical bud explants of Kankoda (Momordica dioica Roxb.), comparison was done between two important sterilizing agents, mercuric chloride (0.1%) and sodium hypochlorite (1.0%) with four time duration 3, 5, 7 and 10 minutes and in combinations. Result showed that amongst the two sterilants i.e. HgCl2 and NaOCl in combination was found better for controlling the infection. Mercuric chloride (HgCl2) for 5 minute and sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) for 5 minute in combination was selected for suitable sterilization agents after 10 minute of DDW wash, 10 minute dip in bavistin and at last washed with double distilled water for leaf explants with 75.00% survival and apical bud explants with 83.33% survival of explants. This is the first report of successful sterilization and reduced contamination of explants from naturally field grown Kankoda by using HgCl2 and NaOCl sterilizing agents in combination for standardizing efficient in vitro surface sterilization protocol.