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Observations on Tradescantia cells in the second meiotic division revealed distinct regions in meiotic chromosomes. These areas 1) consistently stain less dense than the chromosomes themselves, 2) have direct connections with the chromosomes at certain points, and 3) serve as focal points for spindle tubules during meiosis. These lighter staining regions are similar in character to kinetochores (centromeres) found in animal cells.

This paper deals with problems of somatic embryogenesis (totipotency) of carrot cells in liquid culture and when dispersed in thin films of nutrient agar. The critical events that intervene between somatic cells and embryo plantlets during morphogenesis are delineated. Factors that affect the course of these events are described with special reference to the stimuli which permit the very smallest units to develop into organized structures. Special attention is directed to the importance of a protracted period of darkness and the use of an ‘embryo-conditioned medium’ as interacting stimuli that facilitate the early stages of development. Means of arresting and releasing the development of pro-embryonic units are discussed. Aspects of growth and form of the developing cultures are presented photographically at different levels. The behaviour of free protoplasts from pro-embryonic units is described and contrasted with that of intact totipotent cells. The significance of all these observations is examined in the light of practical applications and in relation to problems of development.