| Abstract Detail
Genetics Section Noyes, Richard [1], Wagner, Jennifer [2]. Dihaploidy and the origin of diploid apomicts in Erigeron (Asteraceae). Dihaploids in plants result when tetraploids produce reduced eggs that develop without fertilization into diploid progeny. This process is difficult to study because it usually occurs infrequently. In the course of studying the inheritance of apomixis in Erigeron, a tetraploid (2n=36) was obtained that in addition to producing maternal tetraploid progeny also produces dihaploids (2n=18) at a relatively high rate (16.5%). Analysis of reproductive development of 50 dihaploids reveals that the population segregates 1:1 for diplospory:meiosis. Thus half of the population, combining diplospory and parthenogenesis, are diploids that reproduce via apomixis. This is one of the first reports of diploid apomixis in the Asteraceae. The other half of the population includes plants that produce haploid egg cells for which we observe that approximately 50% of egg cells commence embryonic development via parthenogenesis. Analysis of rare seed produced by these plants indicates that some of the genotypes are capable of producing viable haploid (2n=9) progeny, that develop to flowering stage. Broader Impacts:
Log in to add this item to your schedule
1 - University of Central Arkansas, Department of Biology, Lewis Science Center 180, Conway, AR, 72035, USA 2 - University of Central Arkansas, Department of Biology, 180 Lewis Science Center, Conway, AR, 72034, USA
Keywords: apomixis dihaploidy Asteraceae parthenogenesis.
Presentation Type: Oral Paper:Papers for Sections Session: 21 Location: Marlborough B/Riverside Hilton Date: Tuesday, July 30th, 2013 Time: 9:15 AM Number: 21003 Abstract ID:778 Candidate for Awards:None |