Somatic embryogenesis in European black pine (Pinus nigra Arn.)

Embryogenic callus was initiated from immature zygotic embryos of black pine on medium DCR supplemented with 2 mg 1-1 2,4-D and 0.5 mg 1-1 BAP. The diploid number of chromosomes confirmed the origin of callus from zygotic embryos. The callus was white, glossy, mucilaginous and contained somatic embryos consisted of an embryonic region with densely cytoplasmic cells and suspensor region with long vacuolated cells. Although somatic embryos with green cotyledons were recognisable after ABA treatment and subsequent transfer to growth-regulator free media whole plants have not yet been obtained.