Growth parameters, nutrient uptake and maturation capacity of two cell-lines of Norway spruce (Picea abies) in suspension culture

Growth parameters, nutrient uptake and maturation capacity were monitored for two genotypes of embryogenic suspension cultures of Norway spruce (Picea abies) during a 21-day culture period. The cell lines of the two genotypes were characterized as typical A- and B-types based on morphology, growth characteristics and maturation capacity as first described by Jalonen and von Arnold (1991). Maturation of the A-type cell line was similar after proliferation in the two tested media, whereas the maturation of the B-type cell line was clearly influenced by the proliferation medium. The proliferation medium affected the cellular composition of the cultures, which in turn influenced the maturation capacity. Growth kinetics of the two types of cultures were analysed by means of sedimented cell volume, dry weight, pH, conductivity and osmolality. Growth parameters were compared with uptake of carbohydrates, ammonium and nitrate. Major differences in relation to growth kinetics and nutrient uptake were revealed between the two types of cell lines and these differences are discussed in relation to morphology and maturation capacity.