Shreya K. Kasar, Harichandra A. Nikule, Satyam D. Pawar, Vidya R. Kothari and Sunil P. Bhagat
Abstract
Eulophia nuda Lindl. (Family- Orchidaceae) is an endangered species which has vast potential medicinal applications. It is naturally propagated through its tubers, yet, they only generate very few propagules. Therefore, in the present investigation, an effective protocol has been established for the asymbiotic seed germination and embryogenesis of E. nuda. Seeds from the capsules were used as a source of explant and were cultured on Malmgren Modified Terrestrial Orchid Medium (MG), BM-1 Terrestrial Orchid Medium (BM-1) and ý Murashige and Skoog medium (MS). Selected media were also supplemented with coconut water (15 % CW), IAA, Kn alone and in combination. From the results, it was observed that the seeds germinated only on BM-1 media. The germination and embryo formation were recorded during 10-25 days, seed coat splitting during 25-50 days and development of protocorm like bodies during 60-90 days. The explants grown on BM-1 supplemented with 15% CW & IAA and Kn alone and in combination showed in vitro germination with globular embryo development in 3-4 weeks and development of protocorm in 4-5 weeks. The first leaf primordia development was highly influenced by addition of IAA &Kn, alone and in combination with time required in range of 7-8 weeks. No leaf primordia development was observed on BM-1 media supplemented with CW only. The results clearly confirmed that BM-1 Terrestrial Orchid Medium was most favorable for the germination of seeds of E. nuda. The present research could be very important for the conservation and extensive propagation of this highly important and medicinal orchid, whose survival is under danger due to overexploitation.