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A Correlation between Gametophytic and Sporophytic Characteristics in Zea mays L
Abstract:
If a mixture of types of corn pollen, identified by genetic markers, is applied to the silks of other inbred lines, the rate of pollen tube growth often varies with type of pollen. This gametophytic differential is correlated with a sporophytic differential-relatively heavier seeds in seed mixtures result from fertilization by gametes from faster growing tubes. The increased seed weight is due to greater competitive ability of the zygotes thus formed.
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Some of Mendel’s crosses examined three pairs of contrasting characteristics. Such a cross is called a trihybrid cross. A trihybrid cross is a combination of three individual monohybrid crosses. For example, plant height (tall vs. short), seed shape (round vs. wrinkled), and seed color (yellow vs. green).
The F1 generation plants of a trihybrid cross are heterozygous for all three traits and produce eight gametes. Upon self-fertilization, these gametes have an equal chance to...

