Regeneration of Plants from Embryogenic Cell Suspensions of cv. “Datil” (Musa AA): Morphological Evaluation of Plants in the Field

The full cycle from embryogenic callus (EC) induction to field evaluation of regenerated plants is reported for the first time for banana cv. “Datil” (Musa AA). Immature male flowers were used for EC induction on a modified M1 culture medium. The ideal type of EC was obtained in the presence of 4.5 M and 9.0 M 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D). Embryogenic cell suspensions were established in both concentrations of 2,4-D; however, only the suspensions from ideal callus (IC) formed with 4.5 μM of 2,4-D were regenerated. A histological study revealed the formation of structurally different cell masses during the regeneration phase of cv. “Datil”. The embryos germination was characterized by the growth cellular aggregates, indicating the possible occurrence of secondary embryogenesis. Development and acclimatization of the plants were carried out in a normal manner as observed for other cultivars. Field evaluation of the plants’ genetic stability was based on observation of morphological traits. In the vegetative growth phase, 6.61% of the plants presented drooping leaves and deformed semi-limbs. These traits, however, did not affect further plant growth during flowering and harvest phases. The produced fruits were of good quality. And the present study indicates that this cultivar may be stable genetically.