ABNORMAL SEGREGATION OF WAXY CHARACTER IN CRUZAS DE CORN AND TEOCINTLE

Abstract

Preliminary data are presented on the abnormal segregation of the wx gene in reciprocal crosses between the F1 hybrid (waxy corn x teosinte) and waxy corn and in self-fertilizations of that same hybrid. In reciprocal crosses, progenies are expected that Segregate non-waxy and waxy grains in the ratio of 1:1. However, when the hybrid was used as a pollinator, many of the ears showed an excess of waxy grains over non-waxy grains and when said hybrid served as the female parent there were ears that showed a deficiency of waxy grains compared to non-waxy grains. In the case of self-fertilization of the hybrid, it was found that most of the progenies segregated grains in the expected proportion of 3 Wx : 1 wx. There was an exceptional case in which it showed an excess of non-waxy grains in relation to the expected proportion. The possibility of explaining the results based on gametophytic factors and abnormal chromosome 10 in combination with chromosomal knots is discussed, finding difficulties in achieving a satisfactory interpretation.