Effects of Host Tree Species, Temperature and Humidity on ex vitro Seed Germination in Endangered Species ofLoranthus tanakae

摘要

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of host tree species, temperature and humidity on ex vitro for seed germination in endangered species of Loranthus tanakae. In addition, we compared seed shapes between Loranthus tanakae and Viscum album that we could have easily shown in ex vitro condition. Seeds were germinated after one week inoculation and followed to develop radicles. Seed germination rates of Loranthus tanakae were 80-95% in most of the experimental conditions. The highest rate of holdfast penetrated to host plants was 72% in Populus alba var. pyramidalis among 13 different species tested at 20deg C. Also the rates of their penetration were 57% in Morus bombycis, 55% in Acer palmatum and 42% in Castanea crenata at 20deg C. Seeds were germinated under condition without irrigation and followed to withered in 12 weeks later. Stages of seed germination of the Loranthus tanakae were followed by radicle induction, holdfast development, haustorium formation and penetration in orderin total period of 14 weeks.