Efficient In Vitro Platform for Multiplication, Acclimatization, and Deliver of High-NaCl-Tolerant Clones of the Halophyte Arthrocaulon macrostachyum

Abstract

AbstractHalophytes are species able to grow and complete their life cycle under NaCl concentrations above 0.2 M. In a context of growing population and uncertain agricultural food sustainability, there is an interest on halophytes as potential source of food and fodder. However, scarce research has addressed in vitro propagation of halophytes as a tool for study, conservation, and propagation of elite germplasm. In this study, an efficient method for micropropagation of the succulent and salt accumulator halophyte Arthrocaulon macrostachyum has been established for the first time, using shoot tips from in vitro-germinated plant material. During shoot multiplication stage, superior genotypes were selected from explants grown in high strength and NaCl content medium and subsequently rooted and acclimatized to ex vitro conditions. A comprehensive characterization including determination of oxidative stress, photosynthesis performance, and mineral nutrient contents was done. This research gains insight into the physiological and biochemical characterization of halophytes during micropropagation and provides a solid platform for the production of elite A. macrostachyum germplasm for ulterior uses.