Embryo Rescue and Somatic Hybridisation for the Production of Interspecific Hybrids in the Genus Medicago

T• broaden the germplasm sources available for the genetic improvement of alfalfa, new interspecific hybrids between Medlcago saliva L. and other Medicago species (M. coemlea, M. arborea and M. rugosa) hove been obtained. To • overcome lncompalibility barriers existing between alfalfa and the wild species, ovule-embryo culture and somatic hybridisation were used. Viable plants were obt11incd through the utilisation of both techniques Md their hybrid nature was demonstrated by analysis of morphological traits, by cylological investigations and by electrophorelic profiles of esterascs and peroxidases. Hybrids were fertile and In the fulure their backcross to alfalfa should allow the useful tr11i,s present in the wild species to be lrRnsferred to alfalfa,