Development of cost effective regeneration protocol for aerides multiflora roxb. And rhynchostylis retusa (l.) blume

Abstract

Objective: Tissue culture technology is firmly footed from the stage of ‘concept’ to ‘commercialization’ and plays a pivotal role in the global trade of orchids. The large scale use ofthis technology is limited due to the high production cost of regenerants and efforts are needed to develop cost-effective protocols without compromising the quality of propagules. Methods: More than 80 % of the production cost is attributed to the expensive medium components (carbon source, gelling agents, etc.). The present study reports a system for effective low-cost micropropagation of Aerides multiflora and Rhynchostylis retusa on medium formulated with alternatives to gelling agents, carbon and water source. Results: Medium formulated with table sugar and isabgol as carbon source and gelling agent, and autoclaved tap water gave optimal results without compromising the plantlet quality and total cost of medium preparation declined from INR 87.24 to INR 26.02. Under field conditions, the survival rate of the in vitro raised plantlets in a potting mix of moss, charcoal and mango bark shavings (2:1:2) was ~80%. Conclusion: 70% reduction in the total medium-cost was achieved by using low-cost substitutes which can easily replace sucrose and agar in the medium.