Varietal Differences in the Ability of Callus Formation and Plant Regeneration from Mature Embryo in Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.).

Abstract

In vitro callus formation by mature embryo explants, and subsequent plant regeneration were investigated using 203 Japanese and introduced varieties of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.). These included 176 six-rowed and 27 two-rowed genotypes. Mature embryos detached from seeds were inoculated on the modified N6 medium containing 2 mg/l 2, 4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2, 4-D). Callus was produced in 193 varieties, although most of the calli were soft, watery, translucent and poor in proliferation. Plants could be regenerated from secondary callus especially with some two-rowed genotypes. The growth of secondary callus was promoted by increasing 2, 4-D concentration to 5 mg/l. Plant regeneration was observed in 14 varieties including 6 six-rowed and 8 two-rowed ones. Some of the varieties used, especially the two-rowed ones: may be useful for developing the mature embryo culture system in barley.