Possibility evaluation of Pistacia vera L. seed conservation under cryogenic condition

Wild Pistacia veraL. is one of the broad leaf species which grows in Khorasan Razavi, Khorasan Shomali and Golestan provinces of Iran. Narrow habitat range, lack of natural regeneration and establishment due to habitat degradation and inappropriate utilization has put this species under threat, therefore its protection and conservation is of importance. To evaluate the possibility of long-term preservation of Pistacia vera seeds, three pre-cryopreservation methods including PVS2, desiccation, and 30% glycerol in addition to control were applied. In field experiments the treated seeds were kept for onemonth under cryopreservation conditions,then were planted in the field under rainfed conditions. The treated seeds were kept in liquid nitrogen (LN) for periods of 1 week, 1 month, and 1 year then were removed and some traits related to seed germination and establishment were evaluated.The results showed that Pistacia vera seeds are able to tolerate cryopreservation conditions and are able to germinate under field conditions and the cultivated plants produced flowers and fruits after 6 years. Results showed thatthere is significant difference among cryopreservation pre-treatments in most traits and PVS2 was the best pre-treatment. Therefore,it is possible to preserve the seeds of this valuable and endangered species for long-term under cryopreservation condition and in case of any possible threat the preserved seeds can be used for reclamation of degraded habitats