Somatic Embryogenesis and Plantlet Regeneration of Disease-resistant Slash Pine (Pinus elliottii Engelm.) to Brown Spot Needle Blight
In order to accelerate the propagation of slash pine (Pinus elliottii Engelm.) resistant to brown spot needle blight caused by Lecanosticta acicola,we studied the effects of development of zygotic embryo on embryocenic tissue initiation as well as the effects of ABA and PEG8000 on the maturation of somatic embryos by using the immature zygotic embryos as explants.We also discussed the impact of quality of somatic embryo and drying approaches on germination of somatic embryo.The immature zygotic embryos developed at Stage 2-4 were optimal for induction of embryonic callus.The LP medium supplemented with 16 mg · L-1 ABA+ 180 g · L-1 PEG8000+2 g · L-1 activated charcoal benefited for maturation of somatic embryos.Somatic embroy germination was accomplished by a partial desiccation treatment (paper vessel method) for two weeks by using high quality somatic embryos.The root development after 70 days on 1/4WPM medium supplemented with 0.3 mg · L-1 NAA+1 mg· L-1.The germinated somatic embryos developed into whole plants after 30 d in 1/2WPM.