WHEAT CHROMOSOMES WITH GENES FOR VERNALIZATION RESPONSE

Abstract

Eleven chromosomes of the variety "Hope", when substituted for their homologues in the variety "Chinese Spring", significantly alter its vernalization response. Eight chromosomes, 2A, 5A, 3B, 5B, 6B, 7B, ID and 7D reduce its vernalization response and 3 chromosomes, 4A, 2D and 5D prolong it. Four chromosomes of "Hope", 3B, 6B, 7B and 5D appear to possess a factor, or factors, in addition to vernalization response which influences the extent of vegetative development. A minimal estimate of 11 genes is made which determine the difference in vernalization response between "Chinese Spring" and "Hope". Homologous group 5 plays an important role in the genetic control of vernalization response. The B genome of "Hope" exerts a distinctive influence in shortening the vegetative phase of "Chinese Spring".