In vitro propagation of Elaeocarpus gaussenii Weibel: A critically endangered tree of Southern Western Ghats

Abstract

Elaeocarpus gaussenii Weibel. is a critically endangered tree species in Megamalai Wildlife Sanctuary, Southern Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu, India. This tree has been reported as extinct and collected only by the type specimen due to poor seed germination, endosperm hardness and rigid seed coat. The present study has attempted to develop a micropropagation protocol for E.gaussenii with Woody Plant Medium (WPM) supplemented by different concentrations (0.1–2.0 mg−1) and combinations of BA (6-Benzyl Amino Purine), KIN (Kinetin), TDZ (Thidizuron), IAA (Indole-3-acetic acid), IBA(indole 3-butyric acid) and NAA (Naphthalene acetic acid) alone and various combinations with activated charcoal (1 g−1). The maximum cotyledon germination (97%) was observed on the medium containing KIN + IBA (2.0 + 0.5 mg-1). The best multiple shoot induction (7.6 numbers) with shoot length (8.3 cm) was recorded on IBA + KIN + AD (0.4 + 2.0 mg-1) and maximum root induction (67%) with roots length (3.6 cm) was obtained on WPM with IBA (0.5 mg-1). The rooted plantlets were transferred to pots containing autoclaved garden soil and sand (2:1). About the survival rate, of 80% was successfully recorded in field conditions.