Chromosome instability in hybrids of Hordeum vulgare L. with Triticum turgidum and T. aestivum

Abstract

Intergeneric hybrids of some cultivars of H. vulgare (2n=14) with those of T. turgidum (2n=4x=28)and T.aestivum(2n=6x=42) were evaluated cytogcuctically. The polyhaploids generally had the cross-consistentsomatic chromosome counts and exhibited characteristic haploid meiosis. However, chromosome instability was prevalent in H. vulgore × T. turgidum hybrids. The root tip abnormalities related to laggards at anaphase, chromosome elimination, nondisjunction, and presence of one or more micronuclei. Meiocytes were similarly influenced to give anomalous relationships of 1 bivalent, 17 uni valents; 2 bivalents, 18 univalents; and 3 bivalents, 18 univalents. Microspore abnormalities existed for pollen size, shape and pore number.