Thidiazuron-mediated in vitro clonal propagation of banana cultivar Grand Naine

Abstract

An improved micropropagation protocol was established from field grown sword suckers of Banana Grand Naine (Musa acuminata AAA). Optimization of surface sterilization of sprouted apical meristematic buds and pre-culture on Shoot Bud Induction Medium [MS + 4.0 mgL-1 BA under dark conditions for 3 weeks] resulted ideal number of multiple shoot clusters (12.45±0.33). Subculture of these shoot clusters on Shoot Bud Multiplication Medium fortified with 0.5 mgL-1 TDZ and 20 mgL-1 AdS induced highest shoot buds (16.30±0.45) in 3 weeks and showed consistent till seven passages. The individual in vitro shoots upon transferring onto MS + 0.5 mgL-1 TDZ + 1.0 mgL-1 IBA + activated charcoal (3 gL-1) resulted in elongated shoots and in vitro rooting after 3 weeks at a photoperiod of 16 h light and 8 h dark conditions. The present investigation facilitates the massive propagation (90% survival rate) of healthy and quality in vitro plantlets of banana.