Growth chambers - phytotrons

The Growth Chambers and Storage Cells are used both for research and training activities and for third-party analyses.

The growth chambers are functional for a wide range of activities including:

• Entomological studies

• Genetic breeding

• In vitro cultures

• Phytoiatric studies on herbaceous species

• Integrated management with antagonistic microorganisms

• Test for the pathogenicity of viruses, fungi, bacteria and phytoplasmas

• Analyses of resistance of plant materials to pathogens

• Seed germination and physiology tests. Seed analysis according to international seed analysis rules for Italian and European seed companies

• Tests for the evaluation of the response to abiotic stresses (light, temperature, salinity, water) of herbaceous species under controlled conditions.

Equipment available to the laboratory

DiSTAL has 55 air-conditioned cells: 41 at the Department of Bologna and 14 at the Cadriano Experimental Center.
In some cells it is possible to carry out tests for storage at low temperatures (from 2 to 15°C).
The operating settings in terms of temperature (range from 5 to 35°C), photoperiod and relative humidity control can be regulated.

Services & Consulting

It is possible to contact the referents for any requests for services and advice.

Teaching and Training activities
The growth chambers allow students to carry out the internship and the thesis internship (bachelor’s and master’s degree).
The growth chambers permit Italian and foreign PhD student’s activities, as well as research fellows and Erasmus students.