Step 1: Understanding somatic embryogenesis.
- Somatic embryogenesis is the process by which embryos are formed from somatic (non-reproductive) cells in plants.
Step 2: Initiation.
- Somatic cells from tissues like leaves, stems, or roots are cultured in vitro on nutrient media.
- Callus (undifferentiated mass) is first formed from somatic cells.
Step 3: Embryoid formation.
- Under suitable hormonal and environmental conditions, the callus cells differentiate into structures resembling zygotic embryos.
- These are called somatic embryos or embryoids.
Step 4: Applications.
- Used in micropropagation to produce large numbers of uniform plants.
- Useful for genetic engineering and conservation of plant species.
Step 5: Comparison with other options.
- Callus: undifferentiated tissue, precursor to embryoids.
- Embryo: zygotic origin, not from somatic cells.
- Celluloids: unrelated term.
Step 6: Conclusion.
Hence, embryos developed from somatic tissue are called Somatic embryos.