Tight clustering and hemizygosity of apomixis-linked molecular markers in Pennisetum squamulatum implies genetic control of apospory by a divergent locus that may have no allelic form in sexual genotypes

• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.95.9.5127
• Publication Date: 2002-07-26T14:42:40Z
• Authors: Peggy Ozias-Akins; Dominique Roche; Wayne W. Hanna
• Keywords: Apomixis; Pennisetum; Sexual reproduction

Apomixis is a naturally occurring mode of reproduction that results in embryo formation without the involvement meiosis or fertilization egg. Seed-derived progeny an apomictic plant are genetically identical to maternal parent. We studying form apomixis called apospory occurs genus Pennisetum , taxon grass family. A cultivated member this genus, pearl millet ( glaucum ), reproduces sexually. wild relative millet, squamulatum obligate aposporous species, cross-compatible with when used as pollen donor interspecific cross. present herein genetic mapping 13 molecular markers hybrid population 397 individuals segregates for and sexuality. Surprisingly, 12 strictly cosegregated sac development, clearly defining contiguous apospory-specific genomic region which no recombination was detected. Lack suppression may be coincidentally associated chromosomal context locus it consequence its evolution essential preservation gene function has been previously shown studies complex loci both animal species.