Canadian Forest Service Publications
The molecular biology of tree seed development: research in Canada. 1995. Beardmore, T. Pages 36-41 in P.J. Charest and L.C. Duchesne, compilers. Recent progress in forest biotechnology in Canada. Natural Resources Canada, Canadian Forest Service, Petawawa National Forestry Institute, Chalk River, Ontario.
Year: 1995
Issued by: National Capital Region
Catalog ID: 21306
Language: English
Availability: PDF (request by e-mail)
Abstract
Significant progress has been made by Canadian scientists in tree seed develoment. This research has in part been facilitated by development of conifer somatic embryogenic protocols. Somatic embryos are an excellent experimental system which permit the examination of the various stages of embryogenesis: histodifferentiation, maturation, and maturation drying. Research in the area of histodifferentiation has been primarily descriptive, based on morphological changes of the embryogenic calli. During seed maturation, reserve deposition and the effect of plant growth regulators and osmoticum on embryo development are active areas of research. Research in the area of maturation drying has focused on inducing desiccation tolerance in somatic embryos. The ability to manipulate these various stages of embryo development has significant potential overall tree performance.