Genetic Homogeneity

Zizyphus mauritiana is a medicinally important plant species of arid ecosystem. High degree of heterozygosity, over exploitation and low multiplication rate are major constraints in propagation of this plant species. Here we report a cost- effective cloning protocol of Z. mauritiana. Murashige and Skoog (1962) medium with BAP (2.0 mg l−1) + additives found suitable for axillary shoot induction from mature nodal explant. On this medium 2.8 ± 0.67 shoot were produced from each axillary meristem. Shoots were further multiplied by sub-culturing in MMS medium containing various concentrations of plant growth regulators (BAP, Kn, 2iP) in different combinations. The in vitro propagated shoots were treated with IBA or/and NOA for ex vitro rhizogenesis. Ex vitro rooted plantlets were transplanted to the soil with 95% rate of survival. These plantlets were tested for genetic homogeneity using SCoT marker. For the tested primers, non-detectable variation was observed in DNA profiling among the micropropagated plants and the mother plant. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on concurrent ex vitro rhizogenesis with acclimatization and SCoT based genetic homogeneity assessment of Z. mauritiana. Optimal multiplication and higher survival rate coupled with clonal stability, ensures the effectiveness of the protocol.