Callogenesis and indirect somatic embryogenesis of Persian leek (Allium ampeloprasum spp. Persicum)

Persian leek is a cross-pollinate and heterozygote plant due to protandrous behavior. For implementation of Persian leek breeding programs, somatic embryogenesis can be used to accelerate the hybrid production process. The present study was carried out with the aim of studying of callogenesis and indirect somatic embryogenesis of Persian leek explants under in vitro conditions. For this purpose, Persian leek seeds were planted in 1/2MS semi-solid medium and the seedlings were planted directly, as well as one-centimeter pieces of leaves and roots cultured onto B5 and NL liquid media. In order to induction of callus and somatic embryo, the indole acetic acid and 2,4-D were used in three concentrations of 0, 1 and 2 mg/l. The results revealed that the callus was not formed in leaf explants, and a small amount of callus was formed in the root explants. However, embryonic callus appeared directly in 100% seedlings after two weeks. Calli were yellow and compact with have a friable texture and spherical structure. The highest embryonic callus was formed in B5 medium containing 2mg/l 2,4-D, which somatic embryos were observed after eight weeks subculture in realization. In non-auxin media as well as in NL medium, somatic embryo was not formed. Growth of the roots was increased after subculture the embryos onto B5 medium with 1 mg/l 2,4-D and 2 mg/l kinetin. As a general conclusion, callus formation and somatic embryogenesis of Persian leek were carried out in liquid B5 containing 2mg/L 2,4-D. Seedling had the highest percentage of embryonic callus.