Morphogenetic Potential of Embryo- and Seedling-Derived Callus of Elaeis guineensis Jacq. var. pisifera Becc.

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Abstract
The oil palm of commerce, Elaeis guineensis (tenera), derives from hybridization of variety dura × pisifera. Germ plasm of pisifera is limited, however, because of varying degrees of female sterility. Efforts to increase the range of available pisifera male germ plasm have thus far been limited to fertile pisiferas but it is anticipated that clonal multiplication of embryos and explanted organs from less female-fertile, but nonetheless fertile, male, plants could play a significant role in breeding programmes. Callus has been produced from mature pisifera embryos and leaf explants from young plantlets using a half-strength Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with inositol, casein hydrolysate, activated charcoal and varying concentrations of auxins. After sub-culture on media of similar composition, organized structures can develop. Those which form in stale nutrient media (e.g. left in the same medium for up to 3 months) give rise to embryonal structures which do not readily develop further and can be regarded as neomorphs. If callus once formed is transferred to media with lower auxin concentrations (40–0 mg l−1) embryonal buds and well-formed shoots are produced; addition of gibberellic acid (GA3) fosters the production of well-organized shoots accompanied by roots.