Abstract

The present attempt aimed to optimize micropropagation protocols supplemented with different concentrations and combinations of benzylaminopurine (BAP) (0, 2, 4, 6 mg L^-1) and indole acetic acid (IAA) (0.5 and 1.0 mg L^-1). Exotic banana (Musa spp) genotypes GCTCV-215 (AAA), ‘Yangambi’ Yangambi Km-5 (AAA) and FHIA-23 (AAAA) were used in research work. Experiments were conducted at Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory of Nuclear Institute of Agriculture (NIA), Tando Jam. Data collected for in vitro shoot consists of the following parameters: days for bud initiation, rate of shoot proliferation (%), number of multiple shoots, shoot length (cm) and fresh mass of shoot (g). Significant (p≤ 0.05) variations were observed for varieties, treatments and varieties x treatment for all the parameters. Synergistic effects of BAP and IAA were observed in GCTCV-215 and Yangambi Km-5. Out of various treatments, best concentration for multiple shoot in short period of time for GCTCV-215 and Yangambi Km-5 was found in 4.0 mg /l BAP + 0.5 mg L^-1 IAA. Maximum fresh mass of shoot observed at same concentration and combination of BAP and IAA and for shoot length combination of 4.0 mg L^-1 BAP with 1.0 mg L^-1 IAA was found to be most suitable for GCTCV-215 and Yangambi Km-5. FHIA-23, show better performance in MS medium supplemented with only BAP at concentration 4.0 mg/L^-1. After development of root, in vitro plantlets were shifted from growth room to green house in polythene bags containing garden soil and humus mixture in ratio (1:1).

Key words: Micropropagation efficiency, exotic musa genotype, growth regulators.