Sexual Propagation of the Tunisian Spinescent Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill., Morphogenetic Deployment and Polymorphism

Abstract

The most common means of Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. propagation is through the use of asexually methods without genetic recombination which has been extensively studied for commercial purpose or to reduce erosion and desertification. However, seeds are important units to be considered for maintaining the species genetic variability. With the aim to undrestand the morphogenetic polymorphism deployment of the Tunisian spinescent Opuntia ficus-indica from the juvenile to the advanced stages, we search, firstly, the optimal conditions permetting to ensure the highest germination rate during the shortest period with sulphuric acid scarification in ten levels time of dipping. The best germinated rate (68.0%) is reached within 30 min of treatment exposure. Some germinated seeds showed polyembryony phenomenon. The highest rate (29.3%) was recorded after 25 and 30 min of pretreatment. Occurrence of morphogenetic abnormalities: tricotyledony, dissymmetried, coiled and adhered cotyledons in percentages varying from 12.8 to 20.0% was also reported. Secondly, a morphogenetic tracking of Opuntia ficus-indica young seedlings to adult plants during seven years (2009)(2010)(2011)(2012)(2013)(2014)(2015) from the germination of seeds to the production of seeds was performed. This essay allowed us to report major seedling characteristics, their growth and phenotypic polymorphism: vertical succession of varying numbers of basal cladodes, future plant trunk formation, development and arrangement of secondary cladodes in the space, spinescence polymorphism and the first flowering and fruiting.

Micropropagation of Opuntia and Other Cacti Species Through Axillary Shoot Proliferation: A Comprehensive Review

“…In some cases, seed germination percentage is low due to the physical dormancy imposed by the hard coat. For O. ficus-indica, besides the low germination percentage (5.3%) recorded by Stambouli-Essassi et al (2017), seeds evolved into cactus plants after 5 years of culture, while the first flowering can be achieved after seven years. In opposition to seed germination, conventional vegetative propagation is appropriate for the commercial production of cacti plants with high economical and agronomical values (Ghaffari et al, 2013).…”

Rapid and Efficient In Vitro Propagation Protocol of Endangered Wild Prickly Pear Growing in Eastern Morocco

“…Despite the significant role of sexual reproduction in scientific research, which aims to study genetic variability and factors that affect the germination process, the propagation of seeds remains limited to this domain. Seeds do not ensure genetic stability and lead to genetic segregation of offspring, thereby contributing to a prolonged juvenile stage that retards the growth of cacti in general [12].…”