New sprouts from the nodal segments of the fieldselected,
mature, elite bamboos were used for the
induction of embryogenic callus. Murashige and
Skoog medium with BA and 2,4-D (1.0 mg/l each) was
essential for culture establishment and callusing.
Subsequently, elimination of 2,4-D and a corresponding
increase in BA concentration induced embryogenesis.
Upon transfer to sucrose-enriched medium without
PGRs, these embryos matured and germinated into
plantlets within 21 days, with a conversion rate of
about 80%. The protocol thus established showed a
low frequency of albinos when embryos were matured
on a high sucrose (8%) containing medium under
diffuse light conditions (5 mmol m
–2
s
–1
). Rhizome formation
took place upon prolonged culturing in the same
medium and served as excellent propagules for multiplication.
The plantlets were hardened and up to 78%
survival rate was achieved in soil under greenhouse
conditions.