In vitro propagation of Epithelantha micromeris (Engelm.) A. Weber ex Britt & Rose (Cactaceae), species with special protection

Abstract

The Cactaceae family is considered one of the most diverse of Mexico. Its peculiar shapes and high adaptability in arid areas have been a source of fascination for domestic and foreign collectors. Although a large number of species are included in lists of special protection, the constant pressure of collection for purposes of illegal trade has continued, seriously damaging populations, and completely destroying their habitat. The cactus Epithelantha micromeris considered a very beautiful species is listed as a species with special protection accord ing to NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010, despite this its looting and illegal marketing is a reality, so it is necessary to propagate it efficiently and ensure its conservation. One option for this is the micropropagation technique, which can generate all desired seedlings from a single copy. The objective of this research was to evaluate the addition of plant growth regulators to basal media Murashige & Skoog to make more efficient the in vitro propagation. Three plant hormones were ap plied: indol acetico acid (IAA), kinetin (KIN), gibberellic acid (GA) and the interaction between them forming four treatments. A completely randomized design with six replicates was used. The vitroplants were kept under controlled environmental conditions for 30, 60 and 90 d.  After each period the number of shoots, diameter, height, fresh and dry weight and percent yield were evaluated. The data were subjected to analysis of variance and differences between means as determined by a Tukey test (p<0.05). KIN-based treatments had significant effects on diameter, height and weight, but only KIN-IAA interaction pro moted shoot formation, regarded as the best treatment.