Cytological confirmation of ploidy level in a rare twin haploid of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.)

A rare occurrence of a haploid coconut from a twin seedling was observed in a natural population. The haploid nature of the seedling was confirmed using cytology and ploidy analysis. Amplification of tall-specific SCAR marker in the diploid seedling suggested a possible natural cross by pollen from a WCT palm. The haploids identified in the nursery may be a possible route for generating a pure line of coconut that can be used in future breeding programs.