Somatic embryogenesis in Allium sativum L. (cv. Yamuna Safed 3): Improving embryo maturation and germination with PGRs and carbohydrates

Abstract

Callus induction was obtained from basal part of the garlic clove on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium on which somatic embryos were formed. In Allium sativum L. cv. Yamuna Safed 3, somatic embryogeny has been categorized into three distinct stages: initiation and proliferation of embryo; maturation; and germination of embryo. The initiation of globular-stage embryo differentiation was observed on various BAP and 2,4-D concentrations but at 1.0 mg/l BAP and 0.25 mg/l 2,4-D maximum proliferation of embryos was noted. Best somatic embryo maturation was achieved on 0.5 mg/l GA3 amended medium; ABA at the same level was less effective. Embryo growth was maximum on 3% maltose while plantlet conversion was highest (65.15%) on 3% fructose added medium. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has been presented to demonstrate the apparent morphology and structural details of embryo. Plantlets were successfully raised from in vitro developed embryos.