Six Improved Cameroonian Potato Varieties Introduced In Vitro Through Meristem Culture

Abstract

Introduction:Availability of disease-free, high yielding potato planting material is a major challenge to producers. This study focused on evaluating the ability of locally improved varieties to be introduced for the first time in vitro. Meristem tip culture was used to regenerate in vitro plantlets from improved potato varieties in Cameroon. Materials and methods: Six varieties including Cipira, Mafo, Jacob 2005, Bambui Wonder, Tubira and Irad 2005 were taken from IRAD potato breeding program. Ten meristems were cultured per replicate (4) per variety.The number of meristem tips sprouting, rooting, the number of nodes and shoot length were recorded weekly over a period of 4 weeks. Results and discussion: Meristem tips of all potato varieties regenerated plantlets with vigorous shoots and roots. Sprouting began in the first week and ranged from 40% (Tubira) to 75% (Cipira and Jacob 2005). Rooting began in the 2^nd week and ranged from 7.5 % (Cipira) to 37.5 % (Irad 2005 and Tubira).

Regenerated shoots of all varieties had nodes averaging from 10.0 to 12.5, thus ready for micro-propagation. Conclusion: All six improved potato varieties can be introduced in vitro for rapid multiplication of planting material. Regenerated plantlets should be serologically tested to check they are free from diseases especially viruses.