A protocol for in vitro propagation of Morella pubescens: a protected species in the Tambillo community protected area—Ecuador

A protocol was developed for the in vitro propagation of Morella pubescens (Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd.) Wilbur, a species poorly investigated and not previously reported, with the purpose of massively obtaining plants and meeting the goal of reforesting Tambillo, the first protected community area in Ecuador. Apexes of M. pubescens as explants, which were aseptically disinfected with a sodium hypochlorite solution, were subcultured in WPM basal medium, supplemented with GA 3 and BAP to determine the number of leaves and shoots. Subsequently, the explants were incubated in WPM supplemented with IBA and IAA and the number and length of roots were evaluated. A completely randomized design was used with five and seven replicates, respectively. And for ex vitro acclimatization, the survival of 200 vitroplants was evaluated. The best response in multiplication was observed in WPM with 0.25 mg L −1 GA 3 + 1.5 mg L −1 BAP. The number and length of roots per explant was higher in the treatment with 1 mg L −1 IBA and IAA. Out of 200 vitroplants, 65% survived the environmental conditions. The proper selection of the concentration and type of the growth phytoregulator and the appropriate environmental conditions are important factors to micropropagate Morella pubescens . Key message The successful development of the protocol for the in vitro propagation of Morella pubescens a protected species in Ecuador, establishes the foundations for mass plant production and reforestation in the area.