Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the production of embryogenic calluses and plant regeneration of seven popcorn inbred lines (Zea mays L.) in order to identify lines for further transference of genes to a generation of transgenic plants. The N6 medium with supplementation was used to induce calluses in immature embryos, and supplemented MS medium was used to stimulate plant regeneration of P11, P12, P15 and P18 inbreed lines. The number of regenerated plants was the highest for the P15 inbred line. The P15 popcorn inbred line represents a potential genotype for transferring plant regeneration competence to other popcorn genotypes.

Key words: Maize, immature embryos, callus induction, somatic embryos, regeneration competence.