Illuminating diversity: micropropagation and conservation of Italian service tree
Author(s)
Date Issued
2025
Type
article
Issue
1439
Start Page
235
End Page
242
Journal
Abstract
Preserving the biodiversity of plant species, particularly minor fruits, is crucial in the face of challenges posed by climate change and the ongoing expansion of cultivated regions dominated by economically significant species. The global concern of biodiversity loss is being addressed by both international and national initiatives, underscoring the urgency to reverse this trend. This study delves into the potential of micropropagation to preserve the Italian genetic diversity of service tree (Sorbus domestica L.), a Mediterranean multipurpose species grown for fruit, timber production and ornamental uses. Despite its potential for afforestation and diverse applications, the cultivation expansion of the service tree has been slow due to certain restrictions such as slow growth and the necessity of bletting for the edibility of its fruits. This research explores micropropagation applications on two Italian genotypes of service tree using various light sources, including light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and fluorescent lamps (FLs). The adoption of LEDs in micropropagation is driven by their advantages, such as wavelength specificity, lower heat emission, longer lifespan, and energy efficiency. The study investigates impact of different light spectra on the multiplication, rooting, and acclimatization of service tree. By assessing the morphological and physiological traits, the research aims to establish an efficient micropropagation protocol for Italian genotypes of Sorbus domestica L., contributing to the broader goals of biodiversity conservation. The outcomes of this study unveiled a strong interplay between the genotypes and the used light spectra, underscoring the necessity to customize specific protocols for each genotype. Notably, the use of multi-spectral LEDs influences the morphological and physiological characteristics of the explants compared to the control (FLs). The findings not only provide a potential solution for preserving and propagate the service tree but also deepen our understanding of how light sources affect the morphology and physiology of micropropagated plants.
Subjects