Somatic embryogenesis in <i style="mso-bidi-font-style:normal">Jatropha curcus </i>L. using cotyledonary leaves

Abstract

An efficient protocol has been developed for high frequency plant regeneration through somatic embryogenesis in the biodiesel plant, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal">Jatropha curcus</i>. Cotyledonary leaves were used for the development of the embryogenic callus on MS medium with 0.2 mg/L indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), which developed within 3-4 wk. Later, somatic embryos developed on MS medium with IAA (0.2 mg/L)along with 6-benzyl aminopurine (BAP; 1.5 mg/L). Fist, globular embryo clumps were seen within 3-4 wk and then they got transformed into heart, torpedo and cotyledonary shaped embryos on the same medium after 6 wk. On further subculture on the same medium, embryos germinated with shoot and root primordia, which ultimately gave rise to complete plantlets within 4-5 wk. The pantlets were hardened and transferred to the soil. Around 50% plantlets survived in the soil.