Differential requirement of mature and immature embryo of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) for in vitro regeneration

An efficient protocol for in vitro regeneration from mature and immature (10–12 days old) embryo explants of chickpea has been developed. The frequency of shoot regeneration was influenced by plant growth regulators, physical form of the medium and sucrose concentration. Among various combinations and concentrations of growth regulators used, MS salt + B₅ vit + 4.0%, sucrose (solid medium) gave maximum response (100%) ofshoot regeneration from mature embryo explant. Further, proliferation and elongation of shoots were achieved on MS + 0.6 μM, IBA + 8.8 μM BAP + 4.0%, sucrose (solid medium). Whereas, for immature embryos (10–12 days old) shoots were regenerated on MS liquid medium fortified with 2.8 μM, IAA + 2.3 μM, KIN. which gave maximum regeneration frequency (52.0%). The highest frequency of rooting (93.3%) was observed on 1/4 MS +10.7 μM, NAA + 9.8%, IBA + 2.0%, sucrose. The well developed regenerated plants were transferred in pots containing FYM (Farm Yard Manure): sand: soil (1:1:1). These regenerated plants after transfer to field reached to flowering and maturity. These protocols could be of enormous use for embryo rescue of incompatible interspecific crosses in chickpea.