Determining Optimal Mutation Induction of Philodendron billietiae Using Gamma Radiation and In Vitro Tissue Culture Techniques

Abstract

The Philodendron billietiae is a popular ornamental plant, with mutated varieties in high demand and commanding premium prices. This research aims to identify the optimal medium for propagating Philodendron billietiae and to use gamma radiation to induce mutations. Shoot tips of Philodendron billietiae were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with various concentrations of 6-benzyladenine (BA), both alone and in combination with naphthalene acetic acid (NAA), to induce shoot formation. Different concentrations of NAA were then tested for root induction. Additionally, mutation induction was investigated using gamma radiation from cesium-137 as the primary radioactive source, with doses of 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 Gray. MS medium supplemented with 1.5 mg L−1 BA achieved the highest shoot induction, resulting in more shoots and leaves per shoot. The optimal medium for root induction was MS medium supplemented with 0.5 mg L−1 NAA. In the mutation induction experiment, increasing radiation doses resulted in decreased survival rates, fewer new shoots, and reduced leaf width and length. Gamma radiation at doses between 20 and 40 Gray induced morphological changes in the leaves of Philodendron billietiae. These findings provide valuable guidelines for the genetic improvement of Philodendron billietiae to enhance its commercial value.