In Vitro Production of Haploids in Helianthus

Abstract

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is one of the most important oilseed crops in the world. As a highly cross-pollinated species, homozygotes are especially needed both for genetic studies and breeding programs. However, so far we lack a method of haploid production for shortening the duration of pure line establishment or the breeding cycle of hybrid offspring. In vitro techniques may offer a useful means for this purpose. In this chapter, the in vitro production of haploids through anther and ovary/ovule culture in sunflower is reviewed. The emphasis is given on the recent work done in our laboratory on the fundamental problems of ovule culture of sunflower which are indispensible for making of a new biotechnology in this crop.