4. Conclusion
As a conclusion, our research met its objectives by developing
POME culture medium for the in vitro micropropagation of H.
calltrichoides. The optimum liquid MS strength for culturing H.
callitrichoides was full strength liquid MS medium in which
recorded the maximum growth index of 7.34
0.17 g/g as
compared to other different strength of liquid MS media. As for
the different strength of POME, 1/2 and 1/4 strength POME
recorded maximum growth index of 3.92
0.37 g/g and
3.65
0.27 g/g in H. callitrichoides as compared to other POME
media. However, the growth index of H. callitrichoides in POME
media was still lower as compared to MS medium. Therefore, MS
components were introduced as supplements to enhance the
propagation and growth of H. calltrichoides. In developing POME
culture medium for H. callitrichoides, 1/2 strength POME with full
strength MS supplements (Media E) achieved a maximum growth
index of 8.46
0.49 g/g as compared to Media A–D and F.
Formulation of media E had saved up to 50% potable water usage
via the addition of 1/2 strength POME. In addition, the remaining
nutrients in 1/2 strength treated POME had helped in promoting
balanced growth and preventing abnormal morphological changes
in H. callitrichoides in MS medium. It had aided in cost saving by not
relying on the need of commercial supplement as treated POME is
freely available.