In vitro production of protocorms and protocorm like bodies in orchids – A review

In vitro multiplication is the most important biotechnological tool being used in orchids, especially for large scale commercial propagation. Usually in vitro methods would be useful in a crop where in the existing conventional methods are too-slow, non-profitable and not successful. As orchid seeds lack a functional endosperm, the germination of seeds require a long period and any disturbance to the soil or physical environment destroy the whole population. In this context the in vitro multiplication provide an appropriate solution to this problem. So development of tissue culture protocol is an essential pre-requisite for any other biotechnological manipulations at cellular and molecular level.