Monika Sienkiewicz

Plants, whilst also having an ornamental role, are also a source of beneficial, bioactive compounds, and in vitro cultures are helpful in finding and obtaining them. Streptocarpus ×hybridus can be a source of antioxidants. The effect of different LED light qualities on the growth, development and metabolite composition of Streptocarpus multiplied in vitro on Murashige and Skoog medium was investigated. The used spectra were: 100% blue (B), 100% red (R), red and blue in 7:3 proportion (RB), 50% RB + 50% ultra violet (RBUV), 50% RB + 50% green (RBG), 50% RB + 50% yellow (RBY), 50% RB + 50% far red (RBfR), and white (WLed). A fluorescent lamp served as the control (Fl). For the best morphological quality of multiplied plants, the use of RBY light is recommended. Fl light reduced the antioxidant properties of extracts compared to LEDs. The most recommended spectrum in this aspect is RBfR, WLed, RBG and R light. These lights (except for R) stimulated the polyphenol content. RBY and R light influenced the highest content of free amino acids and reducing sugars. Studies showed that a selected LED light spectrum can influence the production of plant biomolecules with antioxidant properties and, compared to Fl light, improves the growth and development of multiplied plants.