Somatic embryogenesis and organogenesis of Agave victoriae reginae:: Considerations for its conservation

Agave victoriae-reginae somatic embryos were produced through a callus phase from seedling stem segments cultured on MS medium. The optimal treatment was MS medium with 2.26 muM 2,4-D. Multiple shoot regeneration was induced from axillary buds from stem segments cultured on MS medium with 2.2-4.4 muM BA. Effect of MS and modified MS medium with 50% macronutrient concentration, both containing 2.2 muM BA and sucrose at the following concentrations, 20, 30, 45 and 60 g l(-1), resulted in inconsistent multiple shoot formation. Shoots and somatic embryos formed by this indirect pathway could have a multicellular origin, which might lead to genetic variation. The direct development of pre-existent buds occurred on MS basal medium and increased in the presence of BA; this might be a pathway for the rescue of genotypes of endangered species. Embryos and shoots developed and grew roots on MS medium. Complete plantlets were obtained on MS basal medium. A total of 92% per cent of the plantlets survived and grew when transferred to the greenhouse. Agave micropropagation could supply the commercial plant demand, diminishing the gathering of seeds and plants of this endangered species from the wild.