Adventitious Shoot Proliferation from Aseptically Germinated Seedlings of Cuminum cyminum

Abstract

In the present investigation a protocol has been standardized for enhancement of seed germination and regeneration from the various explants (epicotyl, hypocotyl and root) obtained from aseptically germinated seedlings. Seeds were treated with various physico-chemical factors like chilling, acid scarification, crushing and dry storage. The seeds were also given hormonal (Gibberellins and Benzyl Amino Purine) treatment. Explants from the aseptically germinated seedlings were inoculated on Murashige and Skoog’s (MS) medium supplemented with IBA, IAA and Kinetin (0.5-5 mgl-1). The seeds responded well after the chilling treatment (0-1°C) and germinated after one week on MS Basal medium. Best adventitious shoot proliferation was observed in epicotyl explants inoculated on MS medium supplemented with IBA, IAA, and Kinetin within two weeks. The protocol will provide a continuous supply of disease free cumin shoots through out the year, which can be used as a natural source of cuimaldehyde.

Keywords: Cuminum cyminum; germination; Gibberellin; scarification; cuminaldehyde