In vitro asymbiotic germination and seedling development of Limodorum abortivum (Orchidaceae)

Abstract

Germination tests were carried out using immature seeds of Limodorum abortivum and applying in vitro techniques. The results proved that BM₁ culture medium is suitable to promote both germination and further growth stages. Details of the developmental pattern, and some micromorphological features, are described.

Keywords:

• In vitro culture
• micromorphology
• mycoheterotrophy
• protocorm
• terrestrial orchids
• seed germination

Acknowledgements

This study was co-financed by MIUR, as a part of a National Research Project (PRIN 2003). We would like to thank L. Filippi (G.I.R.O.S.) for his help in sampling. We are grateful to Prof. Piera Medeghini Bonatti for the helpful discussion.