Is heterosis noticeable in the callus response of winter durum wheat F1 hybrids?

Abstract

The effect of heterosis on callus induction, callus mass and number of regenerated plants from mature embryo cultures of winter durum wheat (Triticum durum Desf.) hybrids was studied. A total of 14 F1 hybrids and their parents were used for mature embryo culture. The statistical analysis of the results revealed that positive heterosis in callus mass was determined in only one F1 hybrid and in number of regenerated plants in two F1 hybrids. Plants regenerated in vitro were successfully established in soil. Hybrid genotypes may be used to obtain callus and regenerated plants with vigour comparable to their parents. © 2010 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.