Modification of Mendelian Ratios in Maize by Mechanical Separation of Gametes

Abstract

Although the separation of the gametes has not been complete, there seems to be conclusive evidence that normal and tiny pollen grains can be partially separated by simple mechanical means. Separation on the basis of size also results in separation of starchy and sugary genes, furnishing direct evidence that, in this stock, the starchy-sugary genes are genetically associated with differences in size of pollen. The tiny grains, which function only rarely when in competition with normal grains, readily accomplish fertilization when competition with normal grains is reduced or eliminated.