Asexual Embryogenesis and Plant Regeneration from Male Catkins of Quercus

Abstract

Partially expanded male catkins of swamp white oak (Quercus bicolor Willd.) and red oak (Quercus rubra L.) were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with BA or 2,4-D. Explants on 2,4-D produced a yellow embryogenic callus originating from the junction of the pedicel and peduncle. Subsequent transfers to MS with BA and then MS without growth regulators resulted in callus proliferation. After 10 to 14 weeks in culture, white embryoids developed from the callus of Q. bicolor. Separated and individually cultured embryoids underwent direct, repetitive embryogenesis. Upon transfer to l/2-strength MS, embryoid germination and plant regeneration occurred. Callus of Q. rubra degenerated after 5 months in culture, failing to yield embryogenic structures. Chemical names used: dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D); benzyladenine (BA).