Somatic embryogenesis is a process to create an embryo from somatic (non-sexual) cells, eliminating the need for sexual reproduction.

A recent project from the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC) has investigated using this technology for the efficient mass propagation of Australian plants for both land restoration and for use in horticulture.

The study has built a firm foundation for a superior mass propagation method for native plants that cannot normally be produced by conventional techniques. The study investigated three species that are highly desirable in the horticultural industry and two for use in the rehabilitation of disturbed sites including disused mining land.

“The estimated cost of producing a single plant under normal micropropagation methods can vary from less than $1 to over $5 depending on the species and how difficult it is to initiate into tissue culture,” said researcher Dr Maggie Panaia, of the Botanic Gardens and Parks Authority in Western Australia.

“Somatic embryogenesis (SE) is at least 10 times more efficient with approximately 200 SE per petri dish compared to 15-20 plantlets produced in one tissue culture vessel under normal micropropagation. This means the cost can conservatively be estimated at 10 to 50 cents per plant – a significant saving over current production costs.”

“In biodiverse regions or highly diverse floras such as the southern parts of Western Australia, mining often leaves significant components of the biome not effectively rehabilitated. For example, southern rushes, sedges and native heaths represent up to 30 % of pre-mined diversity and biomass, yet current rehabilitation technology returns barely 1 – 2 %,” Dr Paniaia said.

Somatic embryogenesis also has applications for the horticultural potential of unique Australian plants.
“The Black Kangaroo Paw and Koala Fern are in heavy demand in the horticultural industry, but they are slow to multiply in sufficient numbers to satisfy this demand,” she said.

“The use of somatic embryogenesis as a technique to deliver a low cost, superior, mass propagation method for these native plant taxa will effectively reduce the cost of production, reduce loss of biodiversity, increase the efficiency of rehabilitation programmes and boost the supply of these species to the horticultural industry,” she said.

Dr Roslyn Prinsley, RIRDC General Manager for New Industries, said that the research has potential benefits for both the wildflower industry and for the environment.

“This work has laid the foundations for commercial development, and has showed the enormous potential that this technology has for both commercial wildflower production and land rehabilitation,” Dr Prinsley said.

“By investing in innovative technologies like this, RIRDC helps the wildflower industry to become more profitable, more sustainable and better equipped to cope with adverse condition,” she said.

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Media enquiries:  Dr Roslyn Prinsley -  02 6272 5227 / 0409 661087