Cost-effective mass cloning of plants in liquid media using a novel growtek bioreactor

Abstract

A low-cost Growtek bioreactor has been designed, patented and commercialised. It has unique features such as a floating and rotating explant-holder with perforated explant support and a side tube for medium changing, culture feeding and for content monitoring. The bioreactor can be operated both in static and agitated modes. Extensive performance studies have been conducted using representatives of trees (Santalum album), commercial ornamentals (Dendranthema grandiflora), monocotyledonous horticultural species (Ananas comosus), tuber crops (Solanum tuberosum) and a medicinal plant (Catharanthus roseus). In comparison to propagation in agar-gelled media as well as in liquid media using other culture vessels, this bioreactor exhibited 1.2-23.3 times shoot production, minimised root injuries by 32-48 %, reduced contamination by 12-18 % and reduced incubation time by 16-42 %. Thousands of Ananas comosus plantlets raised in this bioreactor have been field tested. Additionally, it was found to be effective for hairy root culture of C. roseus.