Effects of salts and sucrose concentrations on in vitro propagation of Billbergia zebrina (Herbert) Lindley (Bromeliaceae)

Abstract

Tissue culture can contribute to the multiplication of several species with commercial interest, such as bromeliads. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of MS-salts (Murashige and Skoog) and sucrose concentrations on the in vitro multiplication and rooting of Billbergia zebrina, respectively. The in vitro-established B. zebrina plants were inoculated on MS-salts at concentrations of 0%, 50%, 100%, 150% or 200% of the original salt concentration of the medium. The media were prepared in two different consistencies, stationary liquid and 6 g L-1 agar. For in vitro rooting studies, the shoots grew in a medium supplemented with 0, 15, 30, 45 or 60 g L-1 sucrose. Soluble carbohydrates and photosynthetic pigment contents were assessed after the rooting. Significant differences were verified observed in the evaluated characteristics due to the treatments. The use of liquid medium and the 200% concentration of MS-salts induced the highest shoot number per explant (23.94 shoots) and 100% budding.