The objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of light, Murashige & Skoog (MS) salts concentration and sucrose on the in vitro embryo germination and plantlet development of Butia capitata (Mart.) Becc. The culture medium consisted of MS salts supplemented with vitamins, myo-inositol, hydrolyzed casein, activated charcoal, sucrose and agar. Zygotic embryos were cultured in the light and in the dark. Different concentrations of MS salts (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100% in relation with the original MS medium formulation) were tested in combination with two concentrations of sucrose (0% and 2%). In both experiments, 30 days after inoculation, rates of oxidation, germination and root and leaf sheath growth were evaluated. Results showed that light conditions did not affect germination, however, the absence of light improved root growth. Elongation occurred in the absence of sucrose, indicating the occurrence of energy storage in the embryo. The addition of sucrose provided lower oxidation levels, improved elongation and was essential for plantlet initial development. Salt concentrations between 50% and 75% of the MS original concentration provided lower oxidation levels. The concentration of 75% of the MS original salt concentration provided the highest level of rooting.
Butia capitata (Mart.) Becc.; light; sucrose; MS medium
