From nematode identification to sustainable solution: developing tissue culture propagation for Micranthemum and Cryptocoryne ornamental aquatic plants
Journal
BMC Plant Biology
Journal Volume
25
Journal Issue
1
Start Page
886
ISSN
1471-2229
Date Issued
2025-07-07
Author(s)
Abstract
Ornamental aquarium plants, particularly the genera Micranthemum and Cryptocoryne, are prized for enhancing aquascapes’ aesthetics. However, they face challenges in propagation due to susceptibility to pests and complex cultivation requirements. This study aimed to develop in vitro propagation techniques for Micranthemum and Cryptocoryne spp. By using a 0.5% sodium hypochlorite solution for disinfection, we developed effective methods for establishing nematode-free cultures. For Micranthemum sp. ‘Monte Carlo’, the optimal condition for adventitious bud proliferation was 0.1 mg/L 1-Naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA), while M. glomeratus showed optimal proliferation with plant growth regulator (PGR)-free media. Cryptocoryne sp. ‘Flamingo’ exhibited optimal proliferation when treated with 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) at 4.0 or 6.0 mg/L combined with 0.1 mg/L NAA. For root formation, both Micranthemum sp. ‘Monte Carlo’ and M. glomeratus performed best in PGR-free conditions, while Cryptocoryne sp. ‘Flamingo’ achieved the highest root formation with 0.4 mg/L BAP and NAA-free media. During acclimatization, all three species showed a 100% survival rate across all tested substrates—silica sand, a mixture of aqua soil and silica sand, and exclusively aqua soil, with the latter outperforming others in promoting growth. This study presents robust in vitro propagation protocols that not only enhance the proliferation and growth of popular ornamental aquarium plants but also promise to mitigate the propagation challenges they face, contributing towards sustainable ornamental horticulture and reinforcing the ecological and aesthetic value of aquascaping.
Subjects
Explant sterilization
Micropropagation
Phytopathogen management
Plant growth regulators
Plant-nematode interaction
Substrate formulations
Sustainable horticulture practices
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Type
journal article