Optimization of conditions for morphogenic callus production and regeneration of carrot (Daucus carota L.)

Experiments were carried out for optimization of conditions for morphogenic callus production and regeneration of carrot (Daucus carota L.) using four cultivated cultivars in Iran. Hypocotyl segments were cultured on medium supplemented with 0.2 mg/l 2,4-D for callus initiation and proliferation. Small portions of calli (25 mg) were cut and transferred to new media with different concentrations of 2,4-D including 0.2, 0.5 and 1 mg/l. Results showed that low level of 2,4-D was more effective in morphogenic callus production although its high concentrations caused more callus growth. Kinetin in concentration of 0.1 mg/l was also more effective for regeneration than benzyl amino purine (1 mg/l), especially according to embryoid production. MS and MSm media were used in the experiments to identify the differences between these two media according to callus, embryoid and plantlet production. Obtained results showed that MSm is more useful than MS medium for callus production and regeneration of carrot plantlets. Among tested cultivars improved Nantes had more capability to produce viable plantlets.