Relationship between some Phenological Parameters and Somatic Embryogenesis in Theobroma cacao L.

The relationship between three phenological parameters and somatic embryogenesis was investigated during a two-year period. Staminodes and petals from six hybrids and two clones as controls were sowed on three distinct primary callus growth media. Flowering level, fructification level, and leaf thrusts rhythm as phenological parameters were measured simultaneously during the weekly harvest of flower buds. Mean and coefficient of variation of the measured parameters highlighted stable phenological phases. The relationship between phenological parameters and somatic embryogenesis was investigated first by comparing the variation of somatic embryogenesis and that of the phenological parameters, and second by using Pearson's linear correlation. Except for the fructification level in both control clones the first year, the other parameters recorded stable phenological phases, regardless of the genotype and year. Favorable and unfavorable phases for the somatic embryogenesis were identified. In hybrids, favorable phases included February, August, September, and October. In both control clones, time interval propitious to embryogenesis stretched from February to December. The significance of the coefficient of correlation seemed to establish a relationship between somatic embryogenesis and phenology. However, a causal link could not be established. Leaf thrusts rhythm was revealed to be the phenological parameter most linked to somatic embryogenesis. Attempts to optimize embryogenesis during unfavorable phases, showed that a correction of 2.4 D/TDZ concentration is not the solution.