Interspecific hybridization in Lily (Lilium): Taxonomic and commercial aspects of using species hybrids in breeding

K.B. Lim, R. Barba Gonzalez, Shujun Zhou, M.S. Ramanna, J.M. van Tuyl

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

With the main goal of generating new groups of lilies, that combine agronomic characteristics of major importance, a large number of crosses were performed among the three most important groups of lilies (Lilium), viz., Asiatic, Longiflorum and Oriental; and to some species, to produce F1 inter-specific hybrids. These hybrids, as well as many other F1 hybrids, were sterile and two approaches were used to overcome sterility: i) chromosome doubling through chemicals and ii) the use of naturally occurring or induced unreduced (2n) gametes. The first approach produced many fertile hybrids, however, due to autosyndetic pairing in the allotetraploids, recombination was not detected through DNA in situ hybridization techniques (GISH), and introgression was not achieved. On the other hand, through extensive meiotic analyses and pollen germination tests, we selected hybrids that were able to produce 2n gametes, and in some cases, hybrids in which 2n gametes could be induced. Many plants were obtained in reciprocal backcrosses and recombination as well as introgression was detected through GISH and FISH analyses. In this chapter we present the success in breeding lilies from different taxonomical sections through the use of naturally occurring and induced 2n gametes. The mechanisms of 2n gamete formation are described and the genetic considerations of their use to achieve introgression and to generate variability are examined.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationFloriculture, ornamental and plant biotechnology: advances and topical issues Vol 5
Pages138-145
Publication statusPublished - 2007

Publication series

NameFloriculture, ornamental and plant biotechnology: advances and topical issues
PublisherGlobal Science Books
Number5

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