Pollen Cryopreservation in Moringa concanensis for Crop Improvement

Abstract

AbstractMoringa concanensis Nimmo is a wild relative of cultivated species Moringa oleifera of family Moringaceae. Its leaves are rich source of vitamin A and C, antioxidants and also a good source of non-desiccating oil called Ben oil. The pollen of this species can be used in breeding programs for transfer of traits to cultivated species. Though a potential species with multiple uses, its availability is restricted due to its limited distribution in certain patches. A protocol for in vitro pollen germination and cryopreservation needs to be standardized to assess the viability of pollen and to make its availability as and when needed. This study was taken up to check the feasibility of pollen cryopreservation in this species. At the time of anthesis, pollen were collected by holding the anthers with forceps and were taken out using a needle; the collected pollen were dried by keeping them in zeolite granules. Pre-storage germination assessment was carried by hanging drop technique using modified Brewbaker and Kwack medium containing 15% sucrose. The pollen was packed in butter paper covers enclosed in sealed aluminum pouches which were rapidly plunged into the cryobiological system containing liquid nitrogen. After pollen cryopreservation was taken out, post-storage germination test was carried out similar to prestorage germination test and the pollen was also observed under SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy). Cryopreservation of Moringa concanensis pollen can be used to eliminate the barrier of region, season and availability in breeding programmes.Key words Moringa concanensis CryopreservationIn vitro pollen germinationPollination