Mathematical comparison of homologous and homoeologous chromosome configurations and the mode of action of the genes regulating pairing in wheat.

Analyses of frequencies of chromosome configurations in wheat and wheat hybrids are extended to include data from hybrids of three chromosome-pairing mutants of wheat with Aegilops variabilis and from autotetraploid Triticum monococcum. These data confirm and extend the theory proposed by Driscoll, Bielig and Darvey (1979). Homoeologous and homologous chromosome pairing are fundamentally identical. The mode of action of the genes regulating pairing in wheat involves either physical alteration in the chromosomes themselves or changes in an enzyme system that monitors pairing.