Includes an article co-authored by the author during preparation of this thesis. / Bibliography: leaves 111-131. / xi, 131 leaves : ill. (some col.) ; 30 cm. / Title page, contents and abstract only. The complete thesis in print form is available from the University Library. / This study aimed to develop a range of tissue culture techniques that could by utilised in the improvement of Prunus dulcis Mill., with the primary focus being on the development of a genetic transformation system. The two key requirements for such a system, an in vitro shoot regeneration procedure and methodology for foreign DNA introduction, formed the basis of this research. (abstract) / Thesis (Ph.D.)--Adelaide University, Dept. of Horticulture, Viticulture and Oenology, 2001