Nucellar embryogenesis in in vitro culture of abortive ovules of 'pera' sweet orange

Abstract

The breeding of citrus species is limited by apomixis, gametic sterility and incompatibility. Abortive ovules were exacted from various stages of developing fruits of 'Pera' sweet orange (Citrus sinensis Osb.) and cultured in vitro on "MS" medium. Embryogenesis was increased from the time of fruit set up to 1,62 mix 1,60 cm. Abortive ovules and pseudobulbils obtained from abortive ovules were cultured on "MS" media supplemented with different growth substances. The best results were observed with complex organic substances (casein hydrolysate, malt extract, coconut milk and yeast extract). The development of pseudobulbils were not affected by growth substances.