Acta Univ Latv (2005) 691: 137–143

Induction of somatic embryos on in vitro cultured zygotic embryos of spring Brassica napus

Abstract

Mature and immature zygotic embryos of three Brassica napus doubled haploid lines were examined for their ability to produce somatic embryos. Seedlings from mature seeds did not produce somatic embryos in all of the tested media. Induction of somatic embryogenesis directly from immature seeds of doubled haploid lines was obtained on plant growth regulator-free medium. There was no callus phase, thus, the time of induction was very short. Age of zygotic embryos was the most significant factor influencing somatic embryos induction and development into plantlets. Immature zygotic embryos at the age of 20 to 21 days after pollination were most suitable for direct somatic embryogenesis in the tested rapeseed doubled haploid lines.