Phenology, in vitro cultivation, and acclimatization of the endangered bromeliad species Nidularium minutum Mez

Abstract

Knowledge on the phenology of a species indicates the most favorable period to harvest mature seeds, which may be used for producing seedlings through effective methods as in vitro cultivation. This technique has been regarded as a strategy for the propagation of endangered species, such as the bromeliad species Nidularium minutum Mez. This article aimed at identifying the time of fructification and seed production of in situ specimens of N. minutum and establishing a protocol of in vitro cultivation through seeds. The species phenology was followed up for 12 months in plants at the Alto da Serra Biological Station, in Paranapiacaba, São Paulo, Brazil. The results showed that the best time to harvest seeds was from June to August 2008. The germination process occurred at all temperatures tested, being more effective at 26°C, with no need of mineral nutrients. The best conditions for growing plants occurred with the same temperature, with Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing half the macronutrient concentration. By means of this protocol, it is possible to preserve in vitro plants and optimize their production to be used in restocking programs.

Keywords

• Bromeliaceae
• Germination
• Micropropagation
• Seeds
• Temperature