Fertilization and seed production with pollen from in-vitro-cultured maize tassels.
Immature tassel meristems (1-1.5 cm) of maize (Zea mays L.) explanted to a defined nutrient medium underwent further growth and floral development. Microsporogenesis, gametogenesis and pollen maturation were completed within 25 d in vitro. The pollen, recovered from the cultured tassel, germinated on nutrient agar and also on receptive silks. Viable seed produced from controlled pollinations germinated and grew into mature, normal plants. Thus, a significant component of the life cycle of maize can be completed in vitro where analyses and manipulations are possible for both basic and applied research.
Department of Plant Sciences, University of Western Ontario, N6A 5B7, London, Ont., Canada.
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DR
Pareddy
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RI
Greyson
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Walden