The application of modern biotechnology for conservation of any endangered species requires an efficient
in vitro regeneration protocol. In this study a reliable protocol was developed for in vitro seed germination, protocorm multiplication and subsequent plantlet regeneration of Vanda coerulea, an endangered
orchid species. Among the four basal media evaluated for asymbiotic seed germination, Phytamax was
found to be the best followed by Murashige and Skoog (MS). Phytamax was also found good for protocorm development. For protocorm like body (PLB) regeneration, protocorms were then further cultured
on Phytamax media fortified with different phytohormones either individually or in combinations. The
frequency of protocorm like body (PLB) regeneration significantly relied on kinds and concentrations of
plant growth regulators used. A combination of 1-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) (5.36 M) and 6-benzyle
amino purine (BAP) (3.80 M) was found to be suitable for maximum PLB regeneration. Healthy plantlets
were induced from PLBs when cultured on same basal medium supplemented with activated charcoal
(AC – 3.0 g/l). Plantlets with well developed leaves and roots were transplanted to pots filled with a mixture of charcoal, brick pieces and sphagnum moss and transferred to the greenhouse. This protocol will
enable mass propagation and conservation of this exquisite orchid