Micropropagation Studies in Staghorn Fern

Among ferns, one of the most economically valuable fern is Staghorn (Platycerium bifurcatum). It is the most popular species known and widespread of genus Platycerium, belonging to the family Polypodiaceae, which is epiphytic in nature.It is originated in Malaysia and the genus consists of 18 species. They are conventionally propagated by sexual as well as by vegetative methods. However, the conventional propagation using sexual and vegetative methods has been hampered due to slow multiplication, low germination percentage and specific climatic requirement of the plant resulting in low production of the plants under in vivo conditions. So, the present study aims at the standardization of plant propagation and multiplication of the plant using in vitro techniques.