Indirect Somatic Embryogenesis from Mature Inflorescence Explants of Date Palm.

Abstract

Due to the limitations associated with shoot tip explants in the micropropagation of date palm, inflorescence explants are an ideal alternative. This chapter focuses on the protocol for the induction of callus from inflorescence tissue, establishment for proliferation of somatic embryos, germination, elongation, rooting, and acclimatization. Female inflorescences, 30-40cm in length, cv. Shaishee, were used for culture initiation. After disinfection, the outer inflorescence cover (spathe) is cut open, and the spikelet explants, 1cm long, are cultured on modified Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing 100mg/L 2,4-D, 3mg/L kinetin, and 3mg/L 2ip and incubated at 25±2°C in the dark. Callus obtained after 6-8months of culturing is transferred to the culture medium to induce somatic embryogenesis and plant regeneration. Well-developed regenerated shoots are cultured on MS medium containing 0.2mg/L NAA for root induction and plantlets acclimatized in the greenhouse before transfer to the field.