Environ Exp Biol (2018) 16: 1–8

Indian kino tree (Pterocarpus marsupium): propagation, micropropagation, and biotechnology

Abstract

The Indian kino tree (Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb., Fabaceae) is a tree listed in the IUCN red data list as a direct result of the excessive exploitation of its wood. Biotechnology has provided feasible and effective solutions for the tissue culture and mass micropropagation of P. marsupium, thus serving as a means to conserve important germplasm. The synthesis of information in this review aims to stimulate further research on P. marsupium. Breeding and biotechnological programmes that mass produce and effectively manage P. marsupium germplasm in vitro are required, using synthetic seed technology, cryopreservation and in situ conservation to manage this important wood germplasm. Molecular markers have been used to a limited extent to confirm the genetic stability of in vitro-propagated material. Biotechnological advances for this leguminous tree of commercial importance would benefit from research involving photoautotrophic micropropagation for improved rooting, bioreactors for the production of somatic embryos and secondary metabolites, thin cell layers for enhanced micropropagation, and cryoconservation including of synthetic seeds.