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A biotechnology strategy for medium- and long-term conservation of cycads

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Abstract

It has been possible to regenerate a few cycad species in vitro by somatic embryogenesis, either from zygotic embryos (Ceratozamia hildae, C. mexicana, Encephalartos cycadifolius,E. dyerianus, E. natalensis, Zamia fischeri, Z. furfuracea, andZ. pumila) or from leaves of mature phase trees (C. euryphyllidia, Ceratozamia hildae, andC. mexicana). This strategy has great potential for the commercial vegetative propagation of certain highly endangered species (e.g.,C. euryphyllidia) and should indirectly protect wild populations of these species by discouraging collection in situ. Embryogenic cultures of several cycad species have grown vigorously and are highly morphogenic more than 11 years after induction. The long-term conservation of cycad genetic resources can also be addressed for species that can be regenerated by somatic embryogenesis. Preliminary studies indicate that embryogenic cultures that have been pretreated on plant growth medium containing 0.75 M sucrose for two days, encapsulated in sodium alginate, and desiccated for six hours can survive immersion in liquid nitrogen (−196°C).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Tropical Research and Education Center, University of Florida, 33031-3314, Homestead, FL, USA

    Richard E. Litz & P. A. Moon

  2. School of Molecular and Life Science, University of Abertay, DD1 1HG, Dundee, Scotland

    E. M. Benson & J. Stewart

  3. Jardín Botánico, Instituto de Biología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510, México DF, Mexico

    Victor M. Chavez

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  1. Richard E. Litz
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  2. P. A. Moon
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  3. E. M. Benson
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  4. J. Stewart
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  5. Victor M. Chavez
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Litz, R.E., Moon, P.A., Benson, E.M. et al. A biotechnology strategy for medium- and long-term conservation of cycads. Bot. Rev 70, 39–46 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1663/0006-8101(2004)070[0039:ABSFMA]2.0.CO;2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1663/0006-8101(2004)070[0039:ABSFMA]2.0.CO;2

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