Evolution of ethylene and methane in relation to somatic embryogenesis in chickpea

In four genotypes of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) BG 362, BG 372, BG 329 a nd C235 the relationship between somatic embryogenesis of leaf explants and ethylene and methane evolution was studied. In BG 362, which was more embr yogenic than other genotypes, a higher ethylene:methane ratio of 5.8:1 at d ay one after inoculation in the induction medium and a lower ethylene:metha ne ratio of 2.89:1 in the maturation medium was found. On the contrary, in BG 372 with the least embryogenic potential, a lower ethylene:methane ratio of 1.7:1 in the induction medium and a higher ethylene:methane ratio of 4: 1 in the maturation medium was found. Thus, these ratios in induction and m aturation stages seems to be markers for embryogenesis in leaf explants of chickpea.