A modified networks-of-zones model is developed to investigate the mixing performance of three tower-type bioreactors, namely airlift, bubble column and net column (a short notation for airlift reactor with a net draft tube) reactors. A key parameter beta, that characterizes the interaction intensity between the neighboring uprising and down-coming streams, is identified to play a decisive role in determining the mixing characteristics of the three tower-type reactors. The concentration dynamics and mixing behaviors of the three types of reactor are studied with a maximum non-zero eigenvalue analysis (the slowest mode analysis). The model predictions are validated with experiments of heat mixing. The superior mixing performance of the net column reactor over the airlift and bubble column reactors is clearly revealed with the present model and is experimentally verified, and can be linked to an optimum mass transfer between the neighboring uprising and down-coming streams, provided by the net draft tube. This optimum mass transfer is a direct result of a balanced flow distribution in the axial and radial directions. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.