In vitro germination, initial development and acclimatization of Cattleya nobilior Rchb. f. (Orchidaceae): an approach to curb the eventual endangerment of this exuberant, near-threatened Cerrado species

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of different culture media on the in vitro germination and initial development of Cattleya nobilior, and to acclimatize this species using soybean straw as a substrate component, aiming the production of plants at large scale to reintroduce it in natural environments. Anatomical characteristics associated with development during acclimatization are also depicted. The influence of Murashige and Skoog, Knudson, and Vacin and Went culture media on the in vitro germination and protocorm development were assessed. Acclimatization was accomplished using different proportions of soybean straw (SS) and Bioplant (BP) as substrates. Anatomical studies were conducted on the leaves of plants during acclimatization. KC was the most suitable culture medium for both germination and initial development of C. nobilior. Regarding acclimatization, it is recommended that a substrate composed of 60% SR and 40% BP be initially used. Upon transfer to shade-house conditions, plants should be grown in a mix of 40% SR: and 60% BP. The leaf anatomical characteristics observed are typical of epiphytic orchids adapted to water-poor environments, which indicates that SR did not negatively affect the development of the species. The in vitro propagation of C. nobilior as described herein is efficient for its multiplication for commercial and conservation purposes and SS can be used as an alternative component of the substrate for its acclimatization.
 KEYWORDS: Foliar anatomy, culture media, soybean straw.