Advances in the techniques for cryopreservation of Musa germplasm

Since most banana(Musa spp.) do not produce seed and are vegetatively propagated, germplasm must be preserved clonally. Cryopreservation has been the most effective method for long-term conservation. Advances in the techniques for cryopreservation of Musa, including germplasm embryogenic cell suspension, zygotic embryos and apical meristems over ten years are reviewed; and the main factors affecting cryopreservation are also mentioned, which include material, pretreatment, loading and dehydrating. By comparison of the four methods: simple freezing of proliferating meristems, vitrification of proliferating meristems, vitrification of isolated meristems, and droplet vitrification of isolated meristems for cryopreservation of meristems in banana, it is concluded that the droplet vitrification might be the best applicable protocol to Musa germplasm.