Micropropagation of Quercus spp., complications and solutions-an overview

The Quercus genus provides ecological importance by improving the ecosystem in urban and forest settings. However, the massive exploitation of Quercus species without regulation causes deforestation in many areas. Reforestation of the affected areas with Quercus plantations derived from in vitro propagation is the best option. The Quercus micropropagation permits the cultivation of different parts of the plant in various medium compositions. Buds, meristems, and shoot tips can produce genetically stable clones, but meristems and embryos could be used to avoid contamination. Otherwise, the highest multiplication rate of Quercus is obtained by somatic embryogenesis. During in vitro multiplication, several problems can occur, such as basal calluses, vitrification, tissue necrosis, and phenol accumulation. Alternatively, adding supplements to the basal medium, like polyvinylpyrrolidone or ascorbic acid as well as casein hydrolysate, improves the Quercus in vitro culture by control of phenolics and tissue necrosis, respectively. The increase in agar and calcium concentrations and the removal of chloride from the medium reduce vitrification. The Woody Plant Medium is optimal for Quercus in vitro multiplication. Furthermore, the success of acclimatization is guaranteed by the transplantation of plantlets in sterile soil and their preservation in a high level of relative humidity alongside regular irrigation to avoid dehydration of plants. This review detailed an overview of different steps required for Quercus micropropagation and the different ameliorative strategies implemented to overcome the problems encountered during Quercus in vitro multiplication.

Automated summary

The Quercus genus plays an important role in improving the ecosystem in urban and forest environments. However, unregulated exploitation of Quercus species has led to deforestation in many areas. Reforestation through in vitro propagation of Quercus plantations is the best solution. Different plant parts can be cultured using Quercus micropropagation, such as buds, meristems, and shoot tips. Somatic embryogenesis provides the highest multiplication rate. However, issues like basal calluses, vitrification, tissue necrosis, and phenol accumulation may arise during in vitro multiplication. Various strategies, such as adding supplements to the culture medium, have been implemented to overcome these problems.