Somatic Embryogenesis in Cultured Immature Zygotic Embryos in Chestnut

Summary Mature and immature zygotic embryos from two specimens of different Castanea sativa x C. crenata clones were cultured in vitro to induce the production of somatic embryos. After 2 months of culture, nodular embryogenic callus developed on a small proportion of the explants obtained from immature zygotic embryos and cultured on Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with 0.1-1 mg - L -1 2,4dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) with or without 1-2 mg - L -1 zeatin or 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP). Globular and heart-shaped embryoid structures differentiated following transfer to medium with no 2,4-D. Mature somatic embryos were achieved after transfer to Woody Plant Medium. Germination of mature embryos was incomplete. Embryogenic competence was maintained throughout 10 months of regular subculturing.