In vitro Propagation of Vanda testacea (Lindl.) Reichb.f. – A Rare Orchid of High Medicinal Value

Abstract

Foliar explants of Vanda testacea (Lindl.) Reichb. f. were cultured on Mitra (M) medium with 1.0 mg/l BAP, Kn  each and 1.0 mg/l NAA individually and in combination for initiation of regeneration response, proliferation of regenerants and subsequent development of plantlets. Juvenility of the tissues and chemical stimulus were important factors in initiating the regeneration response in the explants. The relatively older leaf explants (>1cm in length) remained recalcitrant to regeneration the representing younger ones (<1cm in length) responded to certain chemical regimes. BAP, Kn individually in the medium should direct PLB regeneration whereas when used with NAA, the explants showed callus proliferation and further differentiated into PLBs. An individual treatment with NAA (1.0 mg/l) impaired the response frequency and delayed further morphogenetic processes leading to plantlet development. The best response in the explants (in terms of high regeneration frequency, early initiation, PLB proliferations, and plantlet development) was observed in 1.0 mg/l BAP alone/with 1.0 mg/l NAA + activated charcoal. Plantlets were transferred to pots containing epiphytic compost (1 charcoal : 1 brick pices : 1 bats). Nearly 75% of plantlets survival was recorded.

Key words: In vitro, Orchid, Vanda testacea, Micropropagation, Protocorm-like bodies, callus

D.O.I. 10.3329/ptcb.v19i1.4077

Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 19(1): 1-7, 2009 (June)