Evaluation of a new vessel system based on temporary immersion system for micropropagation

• A new type of TIS bioreactor was evaluated for masspropagation of three species.
• The results show that this bioreactor is suitable for masspropagation and cost effective.
• Plantlets produced in this bioreactor can be easily acclimatized in greenhouse.

The aim of this study was to evaluate a new culture vessel Plantform bioreactor, based on the temporary immersion system principle for micropropagation of Digitalis lutea × purpurea, Echinacea purpurea and Rubus idaeus. The multiplication ratio and shoot quality in bioreactor were either similar to or better than these on agar medium. The shoot number was similar in both systems for Digitalis and Rubus, while Echinacea had a significantly higher shoot number of good quality in bioreactor. Digitalis and Echinacea gained more fresh weights in bioreactor, while more for Rubus on agar medium. However, the dry weight was similar between the two systems for all three species. Changes in carbohydrate were evident for all species. Autoclaving media could breakdown sucrose, which is both pH- and nutrient-dependent. This study has demonstrated that the Plantform bioreactor is suitable for plant micropropagation.