In vitro medium-term conservation of vanilla (Vanilla planifolia Jacks. ex Andrews) through the use of ancymidol

Resumen

Objective: To evaluate the effect of ancymidol on the in vitro medium-term conservation of Vanilla planifolia by analyzing explant survival, morphological growth, and the regenerative capacity of the conserved material. Design/Methodology/Approach: In vitro shoots were cultured on MS medium supplemented with 30 g L⁻¹ sucrose and different concentrations of ancymidol (0, 1, 2, and 3 mg L⁻¹). After 6 and 12 months of conservation, survival percentage, shoot length, number of leaves, and number and length of roots were evaluated. After 12 months, the conserved material was transferred to MS medium containing 2 mg L⁻¹ BAP to assess its regeneration capacity. Results: Ancymidol significantly restricted shoot and root growth without affecting material survival, with all treatments showing 100% survival at both 6 and 12 months. The greatest growth inhibition was obtained with 1 mg L⁻¹ ancymidol, which resulted in the shortest shoot length after 12 months compared with the control treatment. Moreover, shoots conserved under this condition retained their regenerative capacity and multiplied normally after transfer to culture medium supplemented with BAP. Limitations/Implications: The observed response was assessed exclusively through morphological variables and regeneration capacity. Findings/Conclusions: Ancymidol constitutes an effective alternative for the in vitro medium-term conservation of V. planifolia, as it reduces explant growth, maintains high viability, and allows subsequent regeneration of the conserved material.