Genotypic effects of the maternal tissues of wheat on its grain weight.

Reciprocal crosses were made between semi dwarf spring wheat cultivars (Triticum aestivum L.) differing in grain weight. The weights of the F1 grains (on maternal spikes), from intact as well as from defoliated plants, and those of the F2 grains (on f1 spikes), were examined. Grain weight was controlled primarily by the genotype of the maternal tissues (pericarp, testa or other floret or spikelet organs, including the vascular system), with complete dominance of heaviness. No indications suggesting maternal inheritance were obtained. The frequency distribution of the weights of the F2 grains indicated the presence of genotypic effects exerted by the endosperm or embryo. The embryo or endosperm factors for heaviness also seemed to be dominant.