Embryogenesis in subcultured callus of <i>Larix</i><i>decidua</i>

Abstract

Megagametophytes were excised from immature ovules of Larixdecidua Mill. Archegonia, proembryos or embryos, and suspensors were removed from these gametophytes and the remaining tissue was then cultured on media with various auxins, cytokinins, and organic nitrogen sources. After 8–9 weeks, a few of the cultures produced callus. When subcultured on hormone-free medium, this callus grew rapidly and produced a large number of embryoids with suspensors. Embryogenesis was intense through six to eight successive transfers and then slowed down in subsequent transfers. Many of the embryoids formed plantlets, the ploidy of which still remains to be determined.