In vitro propagation and germplasm conservation of three emblematic forest species of Peru

Abstract

Pseudalbizzia multiflora, Cinchona officinalis and Guazuma crinita are important forest Peruvian species, from the coastal, Andean and Amazonian regions. Current in vitro culture studies on Peruvian wild forest species are few, those that have existed are more closely linked to species with some type of commercial use such as wood or fruit trees. The main objective of this study was to establish a reliable and repeatable protocol in the micropropagation and germplasm conservation of these species. Seeds were collected, disinfected and grown in test tubes in basal medium. For micropropagation, the best cotyledonary nodes and nodal segments were cultured in Piper culture medium, while rooting tests for C. officinalis and G. crinita used 17N medium. Explants were incubated under controlled environmental conditions. Height, number of nodes, leaves, and roots were analyzed over time using means and standard deviations, with comparative tests when applicable. Germination was successful in fresh seeds with 80-100% unlike older seeds. After six months, P. multiflora seedlings from cotyledonary nodes exhibited greater height compared to nodal segments, both showing robust root development. At 15 months, C. officinalis achieved a 2:1 ratio of plant height to node number. In G. crinita, some cotyledonary explants failed to root and died, but those transferred to 17N medium after 12 months demonstrated enhanced growth and root formation. Results indicate these species can be propagated and conserved in vitro for 12, 24, and 36 months, respectively. This research provides a foundation for future studies aimed at preserving other threatened Peruvian species.