Micropropagation of Yeheb from Shoot Tip: An Endangered Multipurpose Shrub

The study focuses on in vitro propagation of an endangered species of C. edulis. In vitro propagation has advantages to address low seed viability and over exploitation problems. Thus, the objective of this study is to develop micropropagation method from shoot tip explant. To do so, seeds were de-coated and disinfected using 5% (v/v) Clorox and cultured on growth regulators-free solid MS medium. Shoots were initiated on MS medium containing BAP alone or in combination with IBA. Then, initiated shoots were multiplied on solid MS medium supplemented with various concentration and combinations of BAP and TDZ alone and in combination with IBA or NAA respectively. Shootlets were cultured on full, half and one-third strength MS medium containing 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 mg/l IBA and NAA for root induction. As a preliminary test for rooting, B5 and WPM media, both supplemented with 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 mg/l IBA, were used. Shootlets were cultured on full strength MS medium containing higher concentration of 3.0 and 5.0 mg/l IBA and 1.0 g/l activated charcoal for four days and then transferred into growth regulators-free MS medium for a month for root induction as preliminary test. The highest percentage of shoot induction (70.8%) was obtained on medium containing 0.5 mg/l BAP in combination with 0.01 mg/l IBA. The highest number of shoots (4.2 ± 0.85) produced per explant was achieved on MS multiplication medium containing 2.0 mg/l BAP. None of the shoots induced roots in any of different MS salt strengths and other media. As conclusion, this is the first try of micropropagation and the existing result is valuable for cryopreservation of this endangered plant.