Distribution and micropropagation of selected species of Zinfiberaceae at Lojing Highlands, Kelantan and Sungai Gadong, Tasik Temengor, Perak

The diversity and distribution of Zingiberaceae at Lojing Highlands, Kelantan and Sungai Gadong, Tasik Temengor has been studied as there were no preliminary studies on these areas. Samples were collected through random sampling and planted in the nursery at Universiti Malaysia Kelantan. A total of 18 species from 7 genus ofgingers were recorded in Lojing Highlands, Kelantan while l3 species fiom 7 genus were found in Sungai Gadong, Tasik Temengor. The key of each species were provided. Some of the plants, fruits and inflorescences were made into herbarium and wet preservations. Two of the samples, Zingiber zerumbet and Zingfber spectabile was used for micropropagation for conservation purposes. Aseptic rhizome buds were cultured on the MS medium. 80% of growth was observed when the explant was surface sterilized with 95% ethanol and 100% (v/v) Clorox® solution. The regenerated plantlets were transferred to the nursery after acclimatization.