Coevolution of A and B genomes in allotetraploid Triticum dicoccoides

Data is presented on the coevolution of A and B genomes in allotetraploid wheat Triticum dicoccoides (2n = 4x = 28, genome AABB) obtained by genomic in situ hybridization (GISH). Probing chromosomes of T. dicoccoides with DNA from the proposed A/B diploid genome ancestors shows evidence of enriching A-genome with repetitive sequences of B-genome type. Thus, ancestral S-genome sequences have spread throughout the AB polyploid genome to a greater extent than have ancestral A-genome sequences. The substitution of part of the A-genome heterochromatin clusters by satellite DNA of the B genome is detected by using the molecular banding technique. The cause may be interlocus concerted evolution and (or) colonization. We propose that the detected high level of intergenomic invasion in old polyploids might reflect general tendencies in speciation and stabilization of the allopolyploid genome.