Direct somatic embryogenesis and plant regeneration from seed derived protocorms of Cymbidium bicolor Lindl.

A protocol for the induction of direct somatic embryogenesis from seed derived protocorms was developed in Cymbidium bicolor. Ninety-day-old protocorms cultured on half strength MS medium alone or supplemented with auxin and cytokinin induced direct somatic embryogenesis. The best response was observed in protocorms cultured half strength MS medium supplemented with BAP at 1.0 mg/L and 2-4,D at 2.0 mg/L. Both epidermal and sub epidermal cells were involved in the formation of embryos. The pro-embryos developed into globular stage and subsequently developed into protocoms. Complete plantlets were formed after 60 days culture. The plantlets were acclimatized in plastic pots containing sterilized vermiculite. Survival rate was 90% when maintained in culture room condition (25 ± 2 °C).

► Somatic embryos were directly induced from the seed derived protocorms of Cymbidium bicolor.
► Half strength MS medium supplemented with both auxin and cytokinin induced direct somatic embryogenesis.
► The best response was observed in half strength MS medium supplemented with BAP (1.0 mg/L) and 2-4,D (2.0 mg/L).
► The pro-embryos developed into globular stage and subsequently developed into protocom and converted into normal plantlets.