Prolific regeneration of fertile plants from green nodular callus induced from meristematic tissues in Lathyrus sativus L. (grass pea)

Abstract

A new in vitro protocol was developed for prolific shoot regeneration from two elite genotypes of Lathyrus sativus L. Vegetative apical and axillary bud explants from greenhouse-grown plants were used to induce regeneration-competent green nodular callus. Callus was induced on two B5 basal media that contained thidiazuron in combination with α-naphthaleneacetic acid or indole-3-acetic acid. Although callus induction was achieved on both media, progression to the formation of green-nodular callus, a distinct morphological feature and prerequisite for regeneration, differed. Shoot elongation was achieved on medium that contained 6-benzylaminopurine, indole-3-acetic acid, and coconut water. Regenerated shoots were readily converted with high efficiency into sexually mature plants either by planting shoots that were induced for rooting on hormone-free B5 basal medium or by grafting of non-rooted shoots.