Cryopreservation of black iris (Iris nigricans) somatic embryos by encapsulation-dehydration

Somatic embryos of black iris (Iris nigricans) were cryopreserved using encapsulation-dehydration. Embryos size of 2-4 mm gave the highest survival after cryopreservation. Preculturing embryos on medium containing 0.75 M sucrose for 3 d at 22 degree C, then at 30 degree C for 1 d ensured maximum survival (60%). Viable embryos were brown in color after cryopreservation and during early recovery while dead ones where light brown or creamy. The first sign of regrowth was noted after 15 d. The final regrowth percentage of living embryo was 90% after 35 d. Only 10% of the embryos in all treatments showed secondary embryogenesis. Direct sowing in vivo of cryopreserved embryos was not successful in achieving germination.