Micropropagation

Definition

Micropropagation is a technique used to propagate plants through tissue culture in a controlled, sterile environment. It allows for the rapid production of large numbers of genetically identical plants.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Micropropagation involves stages like initiation, multiplication, rooting, and acclimatization.
2. It is particularly useful for producing disease-free plants and conserving rare or endangered species.
3. The process often uses small tissue samples called explants.
4. Hormones such as cytokinins and auxins are crucial in different stages of micropropagation.
5. It enables the mass production of plants that are difficult to propagate by traditional methods.

Review Questions

• What are the main stages involved in micropropagation?
• Why is micropropagation particularly advantageous for producing disease-free plants?
• What role do hormones play in the process of micropropagation?

Related terms

Tissue Culture: A method of growing plant cells, tissues, or organs in an artificial medium under sterile conditions.

Explants: Small pieces of plant tissue used to initiate the micropropagation process.

Cytokinins: A class of plant hormones that promote cell division and shoot formation during micropropagation.