The status of in vitro conservation of tropical and subtropical species

In vitro storage techniques have been developed over the past 10-20 years, and are now firmly established as an alternative for those species for which ex situ storage as seed is either not viable or optimal for the particular application. This includes crops which are vegetatively-propagated, species with recalcitrant or intermediate seed, species with highly heterozygous seed, or situations in which elite genotypes need to be maintained. In vitro techniques are also important in the collection, propagation, and distribution of germplasm. This paper summarises the current status of in vitro conservation and scientific and management issues of importance to the future development and application of these techniques. Some of these issues are further emphasised by reference to the status of in vitro conservation in a number of tropical and subtropical species. Information is also included on the development and maintenance of in vitro collections in South East Queensland.