Micropropagation of Ailanthus altissima and in vitro heavy metal tolerance

Ailanthus altissima, a fast-growing and contamination-resistant species is investigated for its use in areas contaminated by heavy metals. A micropropagation protocol for A. altissima was developed, cultured shoots were tested for in vitro heavy metals tolerance. Proliferation rate and shoot length were affected by 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) and Murashige and Skoog’s (MS) salt concentrations, best results were obtained in full strength MS medium supplemented with 1.32 or 2.64 µM BAP. Rooting percentage was strongly influenced by indole-3-butyric acid. Cultures of A. altissima exposed to heavy metals demonstrated a tolerance comparable to species already utilized in phytoremediation.