Gametophytic and sporophytic regeneration from bud scales of the fern Platycerium bifurcatum (Cav.) C.Chr. in vitro

Abstract

Regeneration from Platycerium bifurcatum scales in vitro was observed for the first time. Regeneration was obtained from scales detached from in vitro grown juvenile shoots. Regeneration began as rhizoids or as a proliferation of one or more scale cells into undifferentiated outgrowths distinguishable from adjacent cells by their shape and colour. Outgrowths developed into adventitious buds, aposporous gametophytes, or remained undifferentiated. Numerous outgrowths formed rhizoids on their surfaces. Aposporous gametophytes produced gametangia. Sucrose enhanced scale viability and regeneration, and promoted rhizoid development on outgrowths, but sucrose concentrations greater than 0.1% tended to inhibit apospory.