In vitro</font></i><font size="3"> propagation of Cubans varieties of <i>Solanum tuberosum</i> L. `Yuya', `Marinca', `Grettel' and `Ibis'

Abstract

The in vitro culture techniques are used to support the production processes of potato seed (Solanum tuberosum L.) because it ensure the rapid propagation of promising varieties, genetic stability and high quality plant. This study aimed to determine the response of four potato varieties `Yuya' `Marinca' `Grettel' and `Ibis' during in vitro propagation. Meristems were stablished (0.3-0.5 mm long), multiplied plants and microtubers were formed. During the process of in vitro propagation it were described the morphological characteristics of the plant material. The percent survival of the meristems and the multiplication coefficient were calculated and the number of microtubers per plant was quantified. The results showed a differential response of varieties during in vitro propagation. `Yuya' and `Ibis' had the highest survival meristem rates, high frequency of plants with normal morphology characterized by dark green color, stem of between 2.5 and 4.5 cm in length and presence of leaves and roots. The microtubers formation with diameters between 0.1 to 1.0 cm occurred in all varieties and the highest number per plant was obtained in variety `Marinca'. These results provide important information that will establish quality and planning indicators during in vitro propagation of Cuban potato varieties. Key words: meristems, microtubers, morphology, potato, survival