Somatic embryogenesis and its conversion into plantlets in a multipurpose bamboo, Dendrocalamus hamiltonii Nees et Arn. Ex Munro

New sprouts from the nodal segments of the field-selected, mature, elite bamboos were used for the induction of embryogenic callus. Murashige and Skoog medium with BA and 2,4-D (1.0 mg/l each) was essential for culture establishment and callusing. Subsequently, elimination of 2,4-D and a corresponding increase in BA concentration induced embryogenesis. Upon transfer to sucrose-enriched medium without PGRs, these embryos matured and germinated into plantlets within 21 days, with a conversion rate of about 80%. The protocol thus established showed a low frequency of albinos when embryos were matured on a high sucrose (8%) containing medium under diffuse light conditions (5 mumol m(-2) S-1). Rhizome formation took place upon prolonged culturing in the same medium and served as excellent propagules for multiplication. The plantlets were hardened and up to 78% survival rate was achieved in soil under greenhouse conditions.