Genetic and morphologic characteristics of the gigantic mutant of oats, Avena saliva L

Authors

• Hannu Ahokas Department of Genetics, University of Helsinki, 00100 Helsinki

DOI: https://doi.org/10.23986/afsci.71905

Abstract

A gigantic mutant (gig-a) isolated from cv. Hannes is described. The mutant is lush, many-noded and late ripening not reaching, maturity during our growing season. It does not respond to cold vernalization, application of gibberellins or 12/12 photoperiod by the non-mutant phenocopy. There was no genetic complementation by the infection of Ustilago avenae (Pers.) Rosb. Results are presented showing that the mutant responds to seasonal and other environmental conditions to a greater extent than the non-mutant. Several characteristics of the mutant are compared with those of cv. Hannes and the F1 generation of the backcross. The inheritance is monofactorially recessive. The F1 plants display a great heterosis of grain production. Evidence is presented regarding the temporary heterozygote advantage as the cause of the retention of the mutant in oat stands.