In vitro propagation and developmental ontogeny of endemic fern Anemia schimperiana C. Presl subsp. Wightiana (Gardener) fraser-jenk. (Anemiaceae) and tree fern Cyathea gigantea (Wall. Ex Hook.) holtt (Cyatheaceae)

In vitro propagation protocol was optimized for the endangered fern Anemia schimperiana C. Presl subsp. Wightiana (Gardner) Fraser-Jenk and Cyathea gigantea (Wall. Ex. Hook.) Holtt. using in vitro spore culture. The matured spores that were collected and sterilized with 0.1% HgCl₂ for 15 min and washed with distilled water for 20 min showed less frequency of microbial contamination. The sterilized spores were inoculated on to Knudson C (KC) basal medium (Solid and Liquid) for germination. The germination pattern of A. schimperiana subsp. wightiana Fraser-Jenk is an anaemia type and was observed on the 10th day (d) and filamentous prothalli formed on 22nd d. The cordate-shaped gametophytes without sex organs were observed on 38th d after the inoculation. On 49th and 53rd d the male and female sex organs were formed. The sporophytes initiation was observed on 70th d. The spore germination of C. gigantea (Wall. ex Hook.) Holtt. is of the vittaria type and was observed on the 39th d; the cordate shape thallus was observed on 52nd d, and the sex organs were observed on 58th d after the inoculation. The sporophyte proliferation initiated after 74th d. The fully rooted plantlets were hardened successfully under greenhouse conditions.