Abstract
In vitro propagation technique of Balanites aegyptiaca, a multipurpose woody tree was studied. Nodal segments including axillary bud from mature tree were used as an explant and their morphogenetic potential was tested on MS media with various concentrations (2.5-15.0 mu M) of 6-benzyladenine (BA), Kinetin, and Thidiazuron alone or in combination with different concentrations (0.5-2.5 mu M) of alpha-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA). Nodal segments showed axillary bud proliferation in almost all media tried. MS medium containing 12.5 mu M BA alone was effective for inducing multiple shoots (5.0 +/- A 0.22) with an average shoot length (3.7 +/- A 0.26 cm) in 67% of cultures. A better shoot differentiation and elongation was achieved in a combined treatment of BA (12.5 mu M) and NAA (1.0 mu M). Half strength MS medium supplemented with Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) gave the best result for rooting. The maximum frequency of root formation (68%), number of roots (5.3 +/- A 0.32) and root length (4.1 +/- A 0.38 cm) was obtained on half strength MS medium containing 1.0 mu M IBA. The regenerated plantlets were potted and acclimatized successfully in a growth chamber and then moved to the greenhouse.