Plant regeneration via somatic embryogenesis from immature leaves in Tetrapleura tetraptera (Schum. & Thonn.) Taub.

Abstract

Plant regeneration via somatic embryogenesis was assessed using immature leaf, petiole and apical meristem explants in Tetrapleura tetraptera. Somatic embryos were induced in the immature leaf using MS basal medium supplemented with 2,4-D and matured on MS basal medium containing BAP. Medium supplemented with 12 mg/l 2,4-D had the highest (43.1%) percentage of embryogenic calluses from immature leaf explants. Conversion of embryogenic callus to mature primary somatic embryo occurred in the medium that contained 1.2 mg/l BAP. Development of secondary embryogenic calluses to matured secondary embryos was highest (98.0%) in the medium with 0.4 mg/l BAP, while the highest average number of mature secondary embryos (6.0) was obtained in the same medium. Medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/l BAP and 0.5 mg/l IBA had the highest (38.7%) percentage of explants with shootbuds. The highest (18.1%) percentage of shoot elongation was obtained in medium with 1.0 mg/l BAP and 20 mg/l IBA. Shootbuds survived and produced roots on medium free of plant growth regulators. Shoots obtained on medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/l BAP and 20 mg/g IBA recorded the highest number of roots per plantlet (7.5) with no apparent morphological abnormality.