Synergism and organogenesis using cytokinins, auxins and LEDs on apical meristems of Ficus carica L. cv. Red Libyan

Owing to their rich nutrient reserves, figs and their value-added products are commercially significant, with the Red Libyan cultivar of common fig (Ficus carica L.) distinguished by its bright red fruit. In micropropagation studies, organogenesis occurs because of the synergistic interaction of abiotic factors with both exogenous and endogenous plant hormones. Therefore, in the present study, we aim to investigate the synergistic interactions among three abiotic probes for growth and development namely, cytokinins, auxins and light emitting diodes (LEDs). Results showed that 20 μM TDZ was the most effective treatment for increasing shoot height. Root induction experiments revealed that media containing 5 μM IAA along with endogenous hormones synergistically produced optimal roots with a 62 % success rate. Synergistic effects of cytokinin (20 μM TDZ), auxin (1 μM NAA) and red LED produced healthier plantlets. Combination of Red + blue LED was optimal to produce plants with higher chlorophyll and carotenoid pigment concentration. This clearly suggests positive synergism due to the addition of a single abiotic probe in the combination treatment of hormones and light. Histological analysis revealed the nature and characteristics of plantlets growing under the synergistic effects of cytokinin, auxin and LEDs. This research contributes to the understanding of plant interactions with abiotic probes such as hormones and impact of LED for organogenesis in micropropagation experiments.