Nucellar embryony (notated Nu+) is a form of seed reproduction that occurs in certain plant species, including many citrus varieties. During the germination of seeds from plants that possess this genetic trait, the nucellar tissue which surrounds the embryo sac can produce additional embryos (polyembryony) which are genetically identical to the parent plant. These nucellar seedlings are essentially clones of the parent. (As opposed to zygotic seedlings, which are sexually produced and inherit genetic material from both parents.) Nucellar embryony is important to the citrus industry, as it allows for the production of uniform rootstock which yields consistent results in fruit production. However, this trait can interfere with progress in cross-breeding; most commercial scion varieties produce mainly nucellar seedlings which do not inherit any of the traits of the "father" plant.
References
- Roose, Mikeal L.. ""Molecular Genetic Analysis of Nucellar Embryony in Citrus"". Citrus Research Board 2000 Annual Report. Retrieved on 2006-10-26.
- Kepiro, Joseph L.; Mikeal L. Roose. ""Molecular Genetic Analysis of Nucellar Embryony (Apomixis) in Citrus Maximus x Poncirus Trifoliata Using AFLP"". Plant & Animal Genomes XI Conference. January 11-15, 2003, Town & Country Convention Center, San Diego, CA. Retrieved on 2006-10-26.
