Anther culture in Brussels sprouts (Brassica oleracea var. gemmifera).

SUMMARY Embryo yields from anther culture were determined for seven F1 hybrid genotypes of Brussels sprouts, one of which was known to be highly responsive. At least 1400 anthers were cultured for each genotype and the genotypes were tested in two groups. Although the results were variable, the genotypes were provisionally grouped as follows: two were highly responsive (with up to 180 and 376 embryos per 100 anthers cultured), one was moderately responsive (with up to 53 embryos) and four were virtually non‐responsive. The possible genetic basis for the difference in responsiveness is discussed, together with the implications of the results for the utilisation of anther culture in Brussels sprouts breeding.