Hybrids and amphiploids of Aegilops ovata L. with Secale cereale L.: production, morphology and fertility.

Hybrids (2n = 3x = 21) between Aegilops ovata and Secale cereale were produced via embryo rescue. Most hybrid morphological traits were intremediate between parents, the plants grew vigorously but were completely sterile. The average frequency of chromosome associations at metaphase I was 19.57-20.19 univalents and 0.40-0.86 rod bivalents. The fertility of the hybrids was restored by doubling their chromosome numbers by colchicine treatment and in vitro propagation. Selfed seeds were obtained from colchicine-doubled sectors and some callus regenerates. The seeds were mostly well formed and developed vigorous plants without embryo culture. Colchicine- and callus-derived amphiploids (2n = 6x = 42) resembled the F(1) plants in overall morphology, but showed a lower tillering ability, broader leaves, thicker culms and larger spikes.