Micropropagation and in vitro conservation of Jacaranda decurrens Cham.

Abstract

Several pharmacological activities have been attributed to Jacaranda decurrens a medicinal plant species native to Brazilian Cerrado regions. Its root extracts have been used as anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and tonic agent and the infusion of its leaves has been efficacious in healing external ulcers. In this work, it was aimed at the development of protocols for J. decurrens micropropagation and in vitro conservation in germplasm bank. Asepsis of seeds and nodal segments was effective achieving 97 and 84% disinfestation, respectively and multiplication ratio ranged 6.98. Axillary buds used as explants, regardless of their position on the stem, produced vigorous in vitro plantlets. Multiplication rate of explants cultured in temporary immersion system RITA® was superior (9.61) compared to the proportion obtained in semi-solid culture medium. Optimized protocol for the in vitro conservation of J. decurrens in germplasm bank promoted 56.67% survival. Moreover, enhanced root formation (96.7%) was achieved. Key words: Jacaranda decurrens, Bignoniaceae, micropropagation, conservation.