IN VITRO STUDIES OF HEDYOTIS SPECIES

Abstract

Phenotypic variations in the calli of H.diffusa and H.corymbosa were observed in culture. From these variations, three cell lines were obtained from H.diffusa, namely the green, white and embryogenic cell lines. From H.corymbosa, only green and white cell lines were obtained. The kinetics of these different cell lines were then systematically studied and distinct differences were seen in the phytohormone requirements, sugar consumption, biomass yield and differences in cell shapes and sizes. Studies showed that only H.diffusa was capable of producing somatic embryos. These embryos could be obtained from all parts of the plant. However, excellent production of somatic embryos was obtained from the hypocotyls, leaves and roots. The factors and conditions affecting the production of embryogenic cells, growth and development of somatic embryogenesis in H.diffusa were also investigated.