DeNittis, Alyson; Larson, Joseph; Perez, June; Kopp, Olga R. (Utah Valley University)
Faculty Advisor: Kopp, Olga (Utah Valley University, Biology)
Lepidium ostleri (Ostler's peppergrass) is an edaphic endemic plant species restricted to Ordovician limestone outcrops of the San Francisco Mountains in western Utah. L. ostleri is a species of conservation concern due to its restricted range and proximity to modern mining operations. The purpose of this research is to develop a micropropagation protocol to produce mature plants for population augmentation and introduction to support conservation efforts. De novo shoot organogenic response in tissue explants was highest with various concentrations and combinations of 6-Benzylaminopurine (BAP) and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). In vitro and ex vitro rooting experiments were conducted on micropropagated plantlets supporting adequate number of shoots, with highest success in pulse treatments of indole-3 butyric acid (IBA). Plantlets were then acclimated to external environments for further propagation. Additional effects of different plant growth regulators, media, and growth conditions will be described. Methods for organogenesis for L. ostleri has not been published and this represents the first known instance of successful micropropagation of this rare plant species. Establishing a micropropagation protocol for L. ostleri provides valuable information for potential restoration or relocation efforts.