Optimization of in vitro regeneration of Haloxylon salicornicum: a keystone species of extreme arid regions

Haloxylon salicornicum is an economically important perennial woody shrub of family Amaranthaceae and is a good source of food additives, fodder, fuel and nutrients in Indian Thar Desert. In vitro regeneration of H. salicornicum through nodal shoot segments is achieved in present investigation. Young green shoots in horizontal orientation were found to be more responsive than vertical orientation. Axillary shoot buds were activated on MS medium containing 10 mu M BAP. Adventitious roots with intense root hairs were induced on horizontally placed shoots on half strength MS medium containing 2 mu M NOA + 100 mg L-1 activated charcoal. This is a first report on micropropagation of H. salicornicum. This protocol can be a useful means for in vitro characterization, mass propagation and conservation of the plant for future prospects.