Effects of ε-amino-n-caproic acid and L-lysine on the development of hybrid embryos of triticale (× Triticosecale)

Abstract

The injection of either ε-amino-n-caproic acid (EACA) or L-lysine–HCl into the tetraploid wheat parent (Triticum turgidum L. var. durum cv. Jori) as early as 1 day after pollination with rye (Secale sp.) significantly enhanced the development of hybrid embryos in vivo. The success with which the embryos could be artificially cultured was improved accordingly. One millilitre of either compound applied at 1.0 mg/ml concentration resulted in a significant increase in the frequency of normal-appearing embryos. It is concluded that the application of EACA or its analogue L-lysine could be used in a hybridization program involving certain strains of wheat and rye to partially overcome the physiological barrier to hybrid embryo development.