Cytogenetic Relationship and Barriers to Gene Exchange between<i>Solanum Melongena</i>L. and<i>Solanum Hispidum</i>Pers.

Abstract

SUMMARYStudies on cytogenetic relationship and barriers to gene exchange between the eggplant, Solanum melongena L. and Solanum hispidum Pers. were made with a view to study the possibility of transferring the perennial habit, hardiness, and insect resistance of the latter into former. From cytological study of the sterile species-hybrids it is suspected that the structural changes of chromosomes as well as the disharmonious interaction of genes are responsible for genetic distinctiveness and morphological diversification of the 2 species. It is also indicated that the transference of desirable features of S. hispidum to eggplant may not be easy, but further investigations are needed before the possibility of success is ruled out.