Effect of Media Composition and Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) on the Induction of Protocorm-like Bodies (PLBs) from Thin Cell Layers (TCLs) of Ludisia discolor

Navina Ravi; Thenmoli Shanmugam; Ranjetta Poobathy

doi:10.55230/mabjournal.v55i2.3507

Authors

Navina Ravi School of Applied Sciences (SAS), Faculty of Integrated Life Sciences, Quest International University, 30250, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Thenmoli Shanmugam School of Applied Sciences (SAS), Faculty of Integrated Life Sciences, Quest International University, 30250, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia
Ranjetta Poobathy
ranjetta@gmail.com
School of Applied Sciences (SAS), Faculty of Integrated Life Sciences, Quest International University, 30250, Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0416-1122

Keywords:

Light-emitting diodes, Ludisia discolor, Orchid, Protocorm-like bodies, Thin cell layers

Abstract

Ludisia discolor is a terrestrial, shade-loving orchid species highly valued for its striking foliage and medicinal properties. Conventional propagation of the orchid is limited due to slow growth and low germination rates. This study aimed to assess the induction of protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) using transverse thin cell layers (tTCLs) derived from in vitro nodal segments as an alternative method of propagating the orchid. Parameters assessed included the influence of light-emitting diode (LED) wavelengths and culture medium strength on PLB formation and overall plant development. Transverse TCL explants were cultured on full- and half-strength Mitra media with plant growth regulators (PGRs) and then exposed to five light treatments: complete darkness, blue (460–470 nm), red (610–625 nm), green (515–525 nm), and cold white (6000–6500 K) LEDs. Data on PLB induction, root and callus formation, and the duration required for PLB and root development were collected over a span of six weeks. The highest PLB induction (22.22 ± 4.65%) was observed in explants cultured on full-strength Mitra medium under darkness. The greatest callus formation occurred under blue LEDs (8.89 ± 3.09%), while green LEDs combined with half-strength Mitra medium led to the highest root production (13.33 ± 2.36%). Stem tTCLs cultured on half-strength Mitra medium supplemented with 1.0 mg L^-1 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) resulted in (20.00 ± 6.70%) PLB induction. Histological analysis confirmed direct PLB development from the cut surface of tTCLs within two to four weeks without intermediate callus formation. These findings demonstrate that medium composition and light quality significantly influence morphogenic responses in L. discolor. The optimised tTCL protocol supports future applications in conservation and commercial mass production of this valuable orchid species.

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