Morphogenesis and Plantlet Regeneration from Hypocotyl Explants in Three Selected Species of Citrus

Hypocotyls of three species of Citrus were cultured on different fortifications of MS media to assess their in vitro response. Higher in vitro morphogenesis (somatic embryogenesis and/or embryogenesis) leading to plantlet regeneration was varied considerably due to species and inoculation medium. Induction medium MS4D.5B (MS+ 4.0 mg/l 2, 4-D + 0. 5 mg/l BAP) proved well for callus initiation. Nutrient medium MS4B.5N (MS + 4.0 mg/l, BAP + 0.5 mg.l-1 NAA) performed commandingly for formation of morphogenic calli and plantlet regeneration. Higher root proliferating efficiency was recorded on rooting medium MS.5I (MS + 0.5 mg. l-1 IBA). Roots in higher numbers were attained from culture medium MS2I.5Kn (MS + 2. 0 mg. l-1 IBA + 0. 5 mg/l Kn), while culture media MS.5I.5B (MS + 0.5 mg/l IBA + 0.5 mg/l BAP) supported for enhancing mean root length. In terms of inter specific in vitro response, in general, Acid lime followed by Mandarin and Sweet orange responded decisively for the most of the culture phases. The in vitro raised plantlets were acclimatized and established successfully in the field.