Effect of weak magnetic fields on the in vitro propagation of Genista aetnensis (Raf. Ex Biv.) Dc.

Over the years, many studies have emphasized the importance of the magnetic fields (MF), used as a safe alternative choice to improve agricultural production. The induction effect of different magnetic fields varies depending on the species, explants typology, intensity of magnetic field and period of exposure. The aim of the present study was to investigate the application of a continuous magnetic field induction, at different exposure times, as a production enhancement for in vitro culture of Genista aetnensis, an endemic shrub commonly named 'Mount Etna broom'. An in vitro protocol has been settled for the conservation of the species. Plantlets cultured onto a solified Murashige and Skoog salts and vitamins medium enriched with 1.78 μM BA showed the best multiplication rate (3.5 shoot explants-1). All the plants cultured on this medium were induced by a 150 mT MF at different times (0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 min) and, after 3 weeks, the multiplication rate was scored. Root production was also tested on the plantlets coming from the MF induction trial. The MF widely influenced the multiplication response of the species, increasing the number of shoots (7.2 explant-1) at 4-min induction. The magnetised plants, cultured on the same rooting medium, evidenced significant rooting percentage response (92.2%). In this article, the influence of a magnetic field is highlighted, confirming the possibility of a large scale production process.