Rapid micropropagation and callus induction of Terminalia bellerica Roxb. -An endangered plant

An in vitro micropropagation system has been develo ped for Terminalia bellerica Roxb., an important In dian medicinal plant. Nodal segments obtained from 15-d- old aseptically grown seedlings were used as explan ts. MS medium containing 2.0 mg/l BAP was found most suita ble for culture initiation. Although shoot multipli cation was achieved on MS medium containing BAP and Kn, the ma ximum number of shoots was obtained with 3.5 mg/l B AP+ 0.5 mg/l Kn. Best rooting response was observed on medium containing quarter strength MS salts, 0.8% a gar and 1.0 mg/l IBA. Plantlets were hardened initially in culture room conditions and then transferred to mis thouse. Maximum callus induction response was observed on M S medium supplemented with 0.25 mg/l 2,4-D+ 0.3 mg/ l Kn within 4 weeks from leaf petiole.