IN VITRO PRESERVATION OF LOQUAT GERMPLASM

Temperature of 11–15°C was favorable for in vitro preservation or plantlets of loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.). Tin foil, or paper with plastic membrane proved satisfactory to cover tubes in which plantlets were preserved. Growth inhibitors (25 mg L^-1 chorocholine chloride (CCC), 2–5 mg L^-1 pachlobutrazol (PP₃₃₃), and 10 mg L^-1 abscisic acid (ABA)) on preservation were evaluated and ABA proved best. A two-step vitrification procedure for in vitro cryopreservation of loquat shoot tips was tested. Survival rate after cryopreservation was affected by duration of preculture, pretreatment with 60% PVS₂, and treatment with PVS₂ after cryopreservation.