Enhancing biotechnological approaches for the in vitro micropropagation: Protecting endangered wild tulip species in Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Abstract

Tulipa, a genus of bulbous geophytes, boasts a globally recognized ornamental value. Anthropogenic influences have precipitated a decline in the wild populations of Tulipa, including those in Uzbekistan, necessitating the development of forward-looking conservation strategies. This study focuses on advancing biotechnological strategies for in vitro micropropagation to conserve endangered wild Tulipa species in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Tulipa ingens and Tulipa fosteriana, listed as vulnerable and near threatened, respectively, on the IUCN Red List, face numerous anthropogenic threats including habitat loss and overexploitation. Our research demonstrates the effectiveness of sterilization protocols, successful micropropagation from seeds, and the importance of adapting to non-sterile conditions. Through meticulous experimentation, a novel sterilization approach involving a 5 percent Domestos solution coupled with brief ethanol exposure yielded the highest viability rates for plant materials. Micropropagation from seeds resulted in successful shoot and microbulb formation, providing a promising conservation strategy for these rare species. The study underscores the urgency of conservation efforts in Uzbekistan, where the extent of occurrence and area of occupancy of these species classify them as endangered. Our findings contribute valuable data for ex-situ conservation measures, offering hope for the preservation of red-listed Tulipa species in the region.