Comparison of NAA and 2,4-D induced somatic embryogenesis in Cassava

NAA and 2,4-D were compared for their ability to induce somatic embryogenesis in cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz). In all seven cultivars tested, only 2,4-D had the capacity to induce primary somatic embryos from leaf explants, however, both NAA and 2,4-D were capable of inducing secondary somatic embryos. More secondary somatic embryos were formed in NAA than in 2,4-D medium. Furthermore, the maturation period for secondary somatic embryos was shorter in NAA medium than in 2,4-D medium. In some cultivars, repeated subculture of secondary somatic embryos in NAA medium resulted in a gradual shift from somatic embryogenesis to adventitious root formation. This shift could be stopped and reversed by subculture of the material in 2,4-D medium. In NAA medium the most secondary somatic embryos were formed when they were subcultured every 15 days whereas in 2,4-D a 20 day subculture interval was optimal. Subculture of secondary somatic embryos at a high inoculum density (>1.5 g jar⁻¹) in NAA medium did not result in the formation of secondary somatic embryos, whereas in 2,4-D it lead to the formation of globular secondary somatic embryos. With 2,4-D the newly induced secondary somatic embryos were connected vertically to the explant and with NAA medium horizontally. For all cultivars tested, desiccation stimulated normal germination of NAA-induced somatic embryos. However, the desiccated, secondary somatic embryos required a medium supplemented with BA for high frequency germination. The concentration of BA needed for high frequency germination was higher when the desiccated secondary somatic embryos were cultured in light instead of dark. In only one cultivar desiccation enhanced germination of 2,4-D induced secondary somatic embryos and in three other cultivars it stimulated only root formation. This revised version was published online in June 2006 with corrections to the Cover Date.