In Vitro Shoot Multiplication and Root Induction in Silk Banana Variety Nanjanagud Rasabale as Influenced by Monochromatic Light Spectra

Abstract

A number of factors are known to influence the aseptic culture multiplication, rooting and subsequent hardening in banana. Study of these factors would not only improve the in vitro response but also help in increasing the understanding of its basis. During present investigation, in vitro culture proliferation and root induction response in Silk banana as affected by different monochromatic lights (red, white, green and blue) was studied. In multiplication stage, cultures were grown on media with or without supplemental cytokinins. Results revealed that white light promoted shoot multiplication and growth on cytokinin rich media, when compared with other lights studied. Shoot multiplication was also improved in red light as compared to blue and green, but noticeable reduction in the quality of shoots was reported. Incubation of shoots under blue lights improved the quality of the shoots, and the regenerants were uniform in growth. White and blue lights also supported root induction and growth related parameters during in vitro root induction phase. Considering the growth response and uniformity of the cultures, blue light could be effectively used as an option in the slow growth culture in banana, however further investigations could help in optimizing the culture conditions.