A Protocol for the Induction of Polyploids in Phalaenopsis Orchids by In Vitro Method Without Using Anti-microtubule Agents

Abstract

The orchid family is one of the largest families of flowering plants known for their beauty and economic importance. Orchids are especially vital to the horticulture and florist indus- tries. In addition, the potential of using orchids as a source for the pharmaceutical and fragrance industries is currently being explored, resulting in a steady increase in scholarly publications related to orchid biology research. When looking at the literature available, it is surprising to find that there is no comprehensive integration of key areas of research that are important to both scientists and commercial growers alike. The main purpose of this publication is (1) to provide key practical areas of research (i.e. germination, micropropagation, traditional and current techniques related to plant improve- ment) and (2) to document methods that ensure survival of plants from laboratories to green- houses. The topics highlighted in this work is by no means complete but is meant to draw attention to the many techniques available that can be beneficial to one’s work on orchid research and development. We hope that this publication can promote cross-talks between scientists and growers. Both groups have different knowledge bases and when combined will ensure successful growth of orchids in their natural habitats or commercial greenhouses. Laymen that are inter- ested in orchid growing will also benefit from having this handy scientific reference. In this work, we emphasize both the theoretical understanding of methods and practi- cal details. A proper theoretical understanding is essential to the success of a protocol. Hence several overview chapters have been included amongst the protocol chapters. We first emphasize propagation methods using seeds and related techniques that are important to plant conservation and improvement (Part I). Successes in asymbiotic and symbiotic seed germination are keys to orchid conservation and their propagation. Part II summa- rizes micropropagation methods, common media, and newer methods of micropropaga- tion such as the bioreactor culture procedures. This is followed by a special technique section (Part III) focusing on techniques related to the manipulation of explants in an in vitro environment. Some cell biological methods and transformation techniques are included in Part IV. Plant improvements through transformation are now common and can also be applied to orchid species with some successes; however, transformation protocols can apply only to a limited number of orchid species. The methods and protocols detailed serve to encourage further improvements in this area of research. Successes in a laboratory setting do not guarantee plant survival and propagation in greenhouses and in the natural environment. Hence, in Part V, we focus on greenhouse propagation techniques that are essential to the survival of plants generated from a laboratory setting. A final part is to showcase recent successes on orchid propagation by documenting sample publications and how to present orchids in an artistic fashion for one’s enjoyment. We would like to thank Mr. Colin Chan for his help in editing the figures and graphics and to Professor C.C. Chinnappa for proofreading manuscripts. Finally, we are grateful to all authors for their contributions to this book and their patience and cooperation during the course of preparation and editing.