Abstract
A reliable regeneration system for faba bean (Vicia faba L.) has been difficult to establish, delaying its genetic improvement. In the present work a rapid, reproducible and efficient regeneration method was developed for faba bean using single cotyledon explants with half embryonal axis. MS medium supplemented with 6 mu M TDZ (thidiazuron), 10 mu M 2-iP and 4 mu M kinetin induced 30 to 50 adventitious buds /shoots after two weeks of culture, which were elongated on MS medium supplemented with 6 mu M 2-iP and 2 mu M kinetin. With healthy and strong roots established, shoots were transferred to MS medium supplemented with 5 mu M IBA within 10 to 14 days. Shoots of 5 cm long were most suitable for rooting. Potting-mixture with good aeration and less capacity to retain water was most suitable for successful establishment of faba bean plantlets. Garden soil mixed with sand (gravel) and bio-manure (1:1:1) was most suitable for transplantation. TDZ promoted adventitious bud formation while 5 mu M IBA was most suitable for rooting, higher concentrations were toxic to plantlets. Aeration of the potting mixture was important for rapid micropropagation and successful establishment. The efficient regeneration protocol reported here allows for successful micropropagation of faba bean, which is essential for future genetic improvement of plants via transformation protocols.