Genetic variation and micropropagation in three varieties of Piper longum L.

Genotypic and morphogenetic differences among three female varieties of P. longum, one variety each from Assam and Calicut and one released variety, V iswam, were investigated for the development of a common and efficient meth od of plant regeneration. RAPD analysis, using random oligonucleotide prime rs, revealed that these varieties are genetically different. Compared to th e Assam variety, Viswam and Calicut varieties are genetically closer (95% s imilarity) among themselves. Morphogenetic potential of node, internode and leaf explants from all the three varieties were compared. Leaf explants fr om different varieties exhibited maximum regeneration potential. Among the types tested, Viswam variety exhibited best morphogenetic response followed by the varieties from Calicut and Assam, An efficient protocol was develop ed for regeneration from leaf calli of all the three genotypically differen t varieties. Callus regenerated plants from leaf explants were subsequently rooted, hardened and established on soil under natural conditions of growt h.