Plant Tissue Cult. 11(2) : 113-120, 2001 (December)

Microspore Embryogenesis Following Shed Microspore Culture in a Three Way Indica Cross Hybrid

A. B. Mandal, Bikash Chowdhury and T. E. Sheeja

Biotechnology Section, Central Agricultural Research Institute, PB No. 181, Port Blair, Andamans - 744 101, India

Key words: Indica rice, Microspore embryogenesis, Shed microspore

Abastract

Fertile plantlets were regenerated following shed microspore culture from a hybrid population of a three way cross (IR20 ? CRM30) ? IR8, involving salt susceptible and tolerant indica varieties of Oryza sativa. Differential culture response was obtained among the parents and the hybrid in respect of androgenic callus induction on liquid N₆ medium containing 3.0 mg/l 2,4-D. IR8 displayed maximum androgenic callus forming ability (5.14%). Direct embryogenesis and plantlet regeneration with multiple tillers were observed among the varieties indicating preponderance of secondary embryogenesis. The hybrid showed 100% morphogenic response with a maximum of 72.4% green plantlet regeneration frequency (GPP). The hybrid was also 3.5 times more efficient in producing green plants rather than albino in contrast to individual parental performance. In vitro rooted plantlets were successfully transferred to field and found to be fertile at maturity.

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