Cryopreservation of plumular explants of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) to support programmes for mass clonal propagation through somatic embryogenesis.

Callus growth has been observed from plumules of ecotype Laguna Tall after cryopreservation using an encapsulation/dehydration protocol. Sucrose preculture treatment and silica gel dehydration both significantly influenced the frequency of callus formation from non-frozen and frozen plumules. The greatest frequency of post-thaw callus growth occurred after incubation of the encapsulated plumules for 72-96 h in medium containing 0.75 M sucrose followed by desiccation over silica gel for 7-8 h down to approximately 30% moisture content (fresh weight basis). Freezing and thawing were carried out rapidly. Post-thaw recovery rates in excess of 80% were recorded.