Influence of nutritional media and photoperiods on in vitro asymbiotic seed germination and seedling development of Dendrobium aqueum Lindley

1 /2 MS medium (93.41%) followed by mMS (91.04%) and m ½ MS (90.23%) in 6 to 7 weeks. The biggest protocorms were observed in MS medium (788.8 µm) followed by ½ MS (615.60 µm). The yellowish embryos during germination exhibit varied colours from yellow to pale green, dark green, yellow, brown, black and white. MS, ½ MS, mMS, ½ mMS, and ¼ MS media only promote fully developed seedlings within 126 to 143 days. The influence of five different photoperiods with four media was also examined separately. 24/0 hrs (L/D) photoperiod provide highest germination (97.75%) on MS followed by ½ MS (96.01%). Dark Photoperiod 0/24 h (L/D) supports up to protocorm stage but with poor seedling growth. The well rooted seedlings were hardened and successfully reintroduced in its natural habitat with 56% survival rate.