Somatic embryogenesis and plant regeneration from litchi protoplasts isolated from embryogenic suspensions

High yields of protoplasts were isolated from litchi embryogenic suspension s, which were maintained by alternative culture in liquid and on solid medi a containing silver thiosulfate. Protoplasts in liquid culture and agarose beads were unable to divide sustainedly, whereas embedding of protoplasts i n Ca-alginate supported cell division to microcalli and the direct formatio n of somatic embryos from protoplasts. Nurse cells of litchi further enhanc ed the culture efficiency when protoplasts were cultured in Ca-alginate bea ds. White non-hyperhydric somatic embryos were developed from protoplast-de rived microcalli or proembryos, and 33.1% of white somatic embryos regenera ted into plantlets.