Cytological studies on diploid and autotetraploid ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.)

Cytology of diploid and induced autotetl'aploid of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) was studied. The diploid (2n=22) showed one or two associations offour chromosomes at first metaphase. The tetraploid formed a high frequency of quadrivalents at first metaphase. Both showed bridge-fragment configurations at first anaphase. Pol1en fertility was 13% in the diploid and 85% in the tetraploid. &nbsp

Cytological studies on diploid and autotetraploid ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.)

Cytology of diploid and induced autotetl'aploid of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) was studied. The diploid (2n=22) showed one or two associations offour chromosomes at first metaphase. The tetraploid formed a high frequency of quadrivalents at first metaphase. Both showed bridge-fragment configurations at first anaphase. Pol1en fertility was 13% in the diploid and 85% in the tetraploid. &nbsp

In vitro formation of roots and rhizomes from anther explants of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.)

Anther explants produced callus and profuse roots when cultured in a modified MS Medium containing 2,4-D, and coconut milk and incubated in darkness. &nbsp

Induced tetraploids of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.)

Autotetraploids were produced in a clone of ginger by treating sprouting buds on the rhizome with 0.25% colchicine solution. The tetraploid was more vigorous in growth, had larger rhizomes and high yield. Oil content of rhizomes, however, was lower in the tetraploid than in the original diploid cultivar. &nbsp