A protocol for the induction of direct somatic embryogenesis from seed derived protocorms was developed
in Cymbidium bicolor. Ninety-day-old protocorms cultured on half strength MS medium alone or
supplemented with auxin and cytokinin induced direct somatic embryogenesis. The best response was
observed in protocorms cultured half strength MS medium supplemented with BAP at 1.0 mg/L and 2-4,D
at 2.0 mg/L. Both epidermal and sub epidermal cells were involved in the formation of embryos. The proembryos
developed into globular stage and subsequently developed into protocoms. Complete plantlets
were formed after 60 days culture. The plantlets were acclimatized in plastic pots containing sterilized
vermiculite. Survival rate was 90% when maintained in culture room condition (25
±
2 ◦C).