In vitro Multiplication of Cymbidium finlaysonianum (Lindl.) from Leaf Segments

The current investigation is envisioned to conserve one of the floriferous species i.e. Cymbidium finlaysonianum through in vitro leaf segment culture. The Cymbidiums are highly ornamental and have huge commercial demand, hence their germplasm needs to be conserved. Leaf segments (1.0 cm size) procured from 28 weeks of sterilize cultures were utilized as explants. These were inoculated in Murashige and Skoog medium (1962) enriched with auxin and cytokinin at 1 mgl-1. The highest regeneration frequency i.e. 80% was observed in 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP), followed by 60% regeneration growth in a-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA). Early development of plantlets was observed within 14 weeks of culturing in MS+BAP medium. This study demonstrates an effective use of in vitro multiplication methodology for Cymbidium finlaysonianum, which can be used for large-scale multiplication and conservation of this valuable orchid species before it goes extinct. The use of leaf segments as explants offers a promising approach for orchid breeding and genetic improvement programs. . KEYWORDS :6-benzylaminopurine (BAP), Cymbidium finlaysonianum, Germplasm, Leaf segment