Somatic Embryogenesis from Immature Olive Zygotic Embryos

The effects of plant growth regulators (PGRs) and the explant type on the embryogenesis and plant regeneration of olive (Olea europaea L. ssp europaea var. sativa) cv. "Chetoui" were studied using immature zygotic embryos. Embryogenic callus induction was achieved on OMc medium supplemented with different concentrations of BAP and NAA at low levels. Immature zygotic embryos as juvenile tissues are competent for somatic embryogenesis independently of PGRs supplementation. Repetitive somatic embryogenesis was obtained on PGRs-free media or at low concentrations in the dark.