Microspore Embryogenesis in Selected Medicinal and Ornamental Species of the Asteraceae

Abstract

Isolated microspore culture experiments were carried out to induce microspore embryogenesis in Chamomilla recutita, Solidago virgaurea, Sanvitalia procumbens of the Asteracea, and Valeriana officinalis of the Valerianaceae. The Asteracea is one the largest plant families of commercial significance for medicinal, aromatic, food and ornamental use. Availability of protocols for an efficient production of doubled haploids via microspore embryogenesis would facilitate breeding efforts in this family. Following the establishment of microspore culture protocols uninucleate microspores divided symmetrically in all the species studied. Additionally, in Sanvitalia multi-nucleate structures were observed, without further development. Swelling of the microspores was routinely achieved, and viability was maintained up to 2 weeks. Results were encouraging for further studies in microspore embryogenesis in the Asteraceae.