Micropropagation of black pepper (Piper nigrum Linn.) through shoot tip cultures

The morphogenetic potential of shoot tip explants of black pepper (Piper nigrum) was investigated and an effective multiple-shoot propagation method is described. Various combinations of media, growth regulators and sterilization treatments were compared. Problems with establishment in tissue culture sometimes occurred, probably caused by endogenous pathogens associated with tissue exudates. The best establishment and proliferation of shoot tip explants was obtained on MS medium containing 1.5 mg l(-1) BAP alone; subsequent growth and development of lateral branches was best on media containing 1.5 mg l(-1) BAP plus 3.0 mg l(-1) IBA. Adenine sulphate inhibited the number of explants showing regeneration but increased the number of shoot buds per regenerating explant. Shoots were rooted on a 50% strength medium containing 1mg l(-1) NAA.