Somatic embryogenesis in cv. Navolean using shoots apexes from axillary buds

In order to develop embryogenic cultures in AAB Musa genotypes without persistent male inflorescence, the process has had greater success from proliferating meristems for callus formation with embryogenic structures. Based on the previous information, other alternative explant sources for somatic embryogenesis development in cv. Navolean. Meristematic apexes were cultured in p5 culture medium supplemented with thidiazuron and ancymidol (0.2, 0.4, 0.6, mg.l-1) to obtain axillary buds. Later, axillary buds and proliferated meristems were tested for callus induction with embryogenic structures combinations with different 2,4-D concentrations. The best growth regulator for obtaining axillary buds was ancymidol (0.2 mg.l-1). For callus formation with embryogenic structures, axillary buds at 1.0 mg.l-1 2,4-D provided a higher percentage (13.6%). These results permitted the development of embryogenic cell suspensions from somatic embryos. Key words: Ancymidol, embryogenic cell suspension, plantain