An analysis of the growth of inbred progeny ofLolium

Abstract

SUMMARYThe growth of the progeny from self-pollination was studied in seven cultivars ofLolium perenneand five cultivars ofLolium multiflorum. All cultivarsotLolium perenneshowed a reduction in the dry weight of the selfed progeny after one generation of inbreeding, although only four of these attained statistical significance. By contrast the reduction inLolium multiflorumwas less marked with only one cultivar showing a significant reduction on inbreeding. An analysis of the growth of two of theLolium perennecultivars which showed reduced vigour in progeny from self-pollination suggested that a lower germination rate and a slower development of leaves in the seedling were two factors which resulted in reduced weights in inbred progeny. The possible effect of the environment in which the inbreds were produced on seedling performance is discussed.