Callus Formation and Differentiation in Embryos of the Coconut Palm (Cocos nucifera L.)

Embryos of Cocos nucifera L. were allowed to develop on various agar based, plant tissue culture media. Environmental conditions, temperature, light intensity levels and photoperiod were regulated throughout the period of the experiment. The anatomy of commercially available embryos (excised from the seed ) and tissues that developed in culture (calli, roots and leaves) was determined. Prepared slides and tissues obtained in culture were photographed and printed. Callus, root and shoot formation were successful. However, embryoids which would have eventually led to free living plantlets were not obtained during this study. Successful regeneration of plantlets in culture would require improved techniques