The preservation of embryogenic lines derived from several endangered
local grapevine cultivars was studied. Embryogenic calluses were
obtained from immature anthers of eight cultivars, sampled on both
fruity-cuttings and field grown vines. Anthers at the 'separated
flower' stage, derived from fruity-cuttings, resulted in an increased
induction of somatic embryogenesis, compared to those derived from the
The preservation of embryogenic lines derived from several endangered
local grapevine cultivars was studied. Embryogenic calluses were
obtained from immature anthers of eight cultivars, sampled on both
fruity-cuttings and field grown vines. Anthers at the 'separated
flower' stage, derived from fruity-cuttings, resulted in an increased
induction of somatic embryogenesis, compared to those derived from the
15.6% and 34.8% in 'Kahli Kerkennah' and 'Muscat Raf-raf' cultivars,
respectively. Although, morphological diversifications of
pro-embryogenic calluses (several necrosis and spontaneous maturation)
were observed on the induction mediumafter 5 subcultures. The reduction
of 2,4-D and TDZ levels to 4.52 μM and 2.89 μM respectively,
induced granular and yellowish embryogenic material. Thus, Chée
and Pool (1987) (CP) enriched with 4.52 μM of 2,4-D and 2.89
μM of TDZ revealed to be the most appropriate for long-term
maintenance. In fact, all the cultivars presented high and regular
embryo maturation rates after 12, 24, 36 and 48 months of cultivation
on this medium, under light conditions. After 4 years, they still
exhibit high germination and regeneration abilities. Germination of
somatic embryos was achieved on Murashige and Skoog (1962)
basal-medium, with rates ranging from 69% to 96%. Only 5% of somatic
embryos were concerned by morphological variations. The regenerated
plantlets presented a normal phenotype under controlled greenhouse
conditions, compared to mother plants