Anther Culture of Australian Wheat Germplasm Using Modified C17 Medium and Membrane Rafts

Abstract

Experiments with wheat anther culture were conducted with the aim of assembling a workable system for doubled-haploid production for Australian wheat breeding. One Australian cultivar, Grebe, carrying the 1BL/1RS translocation was particularly responsive. A modified C17 medium was developed which proved effective when solidified with agarose or when used as a liquid in conjunction with membrane support rafts. The membrane rafts have great potential to assist the development of the anther culture procedure since the medium can be rapidly replenished or replaced with minimal disturbance of the tissue.