| Abstract: | Embryonic axes, excised or included in cotyledonary tissue, of Quercus faginea were tested for viability after rapid freezing and storage in liquid nitrogen (−196 °C). Explants were previously pretreated by desiccation at different moisture contents or by soaking in cryoprotectant (15% dimethyl sulfoxide). Best germination response after freezing (60%) was observed when embryonic axes were desiccated from 53 to 21% moisture content (on a fresh weight basis). Desiccation below 39% moisture content or freezing produced damage resulting in loss of organized growth and the induction of callus formation. |
