Wheat × maize hybridization

Abstract

Cytogenetic evidence is presented that the cross between hexaploid bread wheat (Triticum aestivum, 2n = 42) and maize (Zea mays, 2n = 20) results in a hybrid zygote with one complete haploid chromosome set from each parent. Maize chromosomes are subsequently eliminated. This sytem has potential for wheat haploid production and may also allow segments of maize DNA, including transposable elements, to be transferred to wheat.Key words: wide crosses, wheat, maize, chromosome elimination, haploids.