Evaluation of a Low-Cost Prototype for Micropropagation of Kappaphycus alvarezii and Its Application

Segments of Kappaphycus thalli are generally cultured in liquid medium using conical flasks of different sizes under continuous agitation. This method facilitates the initial growth and produces new thalli of less than 0.5 cm within 15–20 days. However, the growth rate of thalli is very limited despite the use of several plant growth regulators, including AMPEP (Ascophyllum Marine Plant Extract Powder). To enhance the thallus growth rate, a simple and low-cost prototype culture tank was developed to simulate the condition of the sea for culture and maintenance of Kappaphycus thalli for extended times under laboratory conditions. This prototype consists of a low-cost rectangular glass tank connected to an aerator for facilitating water movement and aeration. The tank has the provision to drain the used liquid media from the bottom of the tank. This prototype has an adjustable elastic beading around the inner side of the tank wall that can be set to provide the desired water level, with a provision to tie any number of tiny nylon ropes to stably hang the microcuttings of the thalli in the tank. The water movement in the liquid culture is similar to sea waves, and since the microcuttings are hung stably at a desirable depth, the growth rate is much faster compared to conventional methods. The application of this prototype for various studies related to micropropagation and genetic improvement of Kappaphycus is discussed in this chapter.