Effects of sucrose, maltose and sorbitol on callus growth and plantlet regeneration in Phalaenopsis, Doritaenopsis and Neofinetia

Abstract

The effects of sucrose, maltose, and sorbitol on callus growth of Phalaenopsis, Doritaenopsis, and Neofinetia were investigated. Calli derived from these three genera, grown on sucrose medium enriched with coconut endosperm, grew rapidly but remained friable and yellowish even after 3 subcultures at 8-week intervals. Calli of most cultivars, grown on maltose or sorbitol medium, initiated protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) which subsequently developed into plantlets. Regenerated plantlets were normal and healthy in appearance. Calli of a few Phalaenopsis and Neofinetia proliferated into green masses and continued to grow but did not develop either PLBs or plantlets.