Morpho-histodifferentiation of Billbergia Thunb. (Bromeliaceae) nodular cultures.

Nodule cultures are formed through an intermediate morphogenetic route that lies between organogenesis and somatic embryogenesis. Although well described in many species, different aspects of the morphological and histological development of nodules remain to be clarified. Based on their threatened status and high ornamental value, Billbergia alfonsi-joannis and Billbergia zebrina, two epiphytic bromeliad species endemic to the South American Atlantic Forest, were studied.