Cacao somatic embryogenesis as a tool in breeding programs: statements and perspectives

Since the work of Orlando Lopez-Baez in 1993, great improvements on cacao somatic embryogenesis from sporophytic tissues have been obtained. Recently, Li et al. (1998) developped a new protocole. It is now possible to produce somatic plantlets from different genotypes. After the definition of somatic embryogenesis, a bibliographic synthesis will be presented, focusing on the limitations that still exist. Cacao somatic embryogenesis has been developed at Cirad for several years. Li's protocole has been tested on many different genotypes. The efficiency of each step of the process has been determined. Histological studies were initiated in order to determine the origin of the somatic embryos. They were demonstrated to be of multicellular origin. This fact has implications for mass production and genetic transformation. RITA, a temporary immersion system developped at CIRAD, has been tested on cacao somatic embryogenesis because this system was used to improve several tissue culture processes on different plants. It significantly improved embryo production and growth. Finally, the use of cacao somatic embryogenesis in breeding programmes will be discussed, as well as the studies that need to be continued in this field. (Texte intégral)

Bibliographic Details

Main Authors:	Alemanno, Laurence, Ferrière, Nicole
Format:	conference_item biblioteca
Language:	eng
Published:	Estacion Central de Investigaciones de Café y Cacao
Subjects:	F02 - Multiplication végétative des plantes, F30 - Génétique et amélioration des plantes,
Online Access:	http://agritrop.cirad.fr/570720/
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