Direct somatic embryogenesis in zygotic embryos of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.)

Direct somatic embryogenesis from isolated intact as well as broken zygotic embryos and in vitro plantlets of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) was o btained. Enhanced embryogenic response was associated with broken zygotic e mbryos. Activated charcoal and light were the critical factors for inductio n of somatic embryogenesis in nutmeg. Histological evaluation revealed the presence of globular and cotyledonary stages. The somatic embryos underwent partial germination after a six-month lag period. A wide range of abnormal embryos were observed. The somatic embryos synthesised chlorophyll, exhibi ted phenylalanine ammonia lyase activity, synthesised phenolics, and could serve as a stable source of secondary metabolites of nutmeg which are comme rcially important.