In vitro regeneration and dry matter assessment of pyrethrin-rich Tanacetum cinerariifolium genotypes

2019 Pyrethrins, a group of six closely related insecticidal esters derived from Tanacetum cinerariifolium (pyrethrum), are considered the safest natural pesticides for the environment. This study focused on the in vitro propagation of six naturally pyrethrin-producing genotypes of T. cinerariifolium through direct shoot regeneration using apical shoot explants. Highly pyrethrins reproducing genotypes were identified by regeneration technique using apical shoot. Significant variation was observed among genotypes in terms of plant height and number of leaves. The Chlorophyll A content of leaves at 60 days old varied significantly among pyrethrum genotypes. Data analysis showed that percent dry matter content was significantly difference between genotypes. The maximum percent dry matter content was observed in genotype LW 8-9 (9.03%) which was followed by genotype LW 9-10(8.75%) of T. cinerariifolium. These f indings suggest that direct shoot regeneration is an effective method for selecting and propagating high pyrethrin-producing genotypes of T. cinerariifolium for potential use in sustainable pest management programs.