The level and pattern of nucleotide variation in duplicate gene provide important information on the evolutionary history of polyploids and divergent process between homoeologous loci within lineages. Kengyilia is a group of allohexaploid species with the StYP genomic constitutions in the wheat tribe. To investigate the evolutionary dynamics of the Pgk1 gene in Kengyilia and its diploid relativ...

Identification of the genetic architecture of phenotypic stability and management of adaptational genes is a prerequisite for improvement of adaptation. To locate the genes controlling adaptation, disomic addition lines of agropyron (agropyron elongatum, 2n=2x=14) into the genetic background of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L., 2n=6x=42, cv. ‘Chinese Spring’=CS) were used in a randomized compl...

BACKGROUND AND AIMS Leaf longevity is an important plant functional trait that often varies with soil nitrogen supply. Ethylene is a classical plant hormone involved in the control of senescence and abscission, but its role in nitrogen-dependent leaf longevity is largely unknown. METHODS Pot and field experiments were performed to examine the effects of nitrogen addition on leaf longevity and...

Several examples of natural mutants in the grass family were presented. All appeared as changes in inflorescence structure. In mutated plants chasmogamy was restricted due to anomalous lodicules or compactness of ears. A rare glumeless mutation in Agropyron pectiniforme reduced the level of assimilation in the ear. All mutations appear as unfavorable in natural populations.

A significant portion of the irrigated acreage in the intermountain western U.S. is comprised of cool season grass pastures. Droughts, coupled with increasing demands for limited water supplies in the region, have decreased the water volumes available for irrigating these pastures and other crops. Consequently, relationship between crop yield and irrigation (water production functions) should b...