Integrated conservation of rare flora

Summary

The outcomes of an 18-month study designed to develop in vitro propagation and plant sampling technologies, as well as cryostorage procedures applicable to rare and endangered taxa likely to be impacted upon by mining activities, are presented.

This study developed in vitro protocols for key, indicative taxa representing the families Myrtaceae, Laminaceae, Rutaceae, Droseraceae, Goodeniaceae, Haemodoraceae and Proteaceae.

The study concluded with a detailed analysis of isozyme and DNA finger printing methods for assessing genetic diversity, developing sampling protocols for propagation and for maintenance of the genetic fidelity.

Keywords: in vitro, propagation, shoot tips, germplasm, cryostorage, genetic diversity, rare flora