Induction of male sterility in wild and related species of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)

Abstract

The genus Helianthus comprises of about 67 species and many of them have been reported excellent sources of resistance against major sunflower diseases and insect-pests as well as sources of male sterile cytoplasm and fertility restorer genes. The transfer of gene from wild species to cultivated types requires intercrossing between them. Hand emasculation of wild species flowers is very difficult owing to the presence of a large number of very small florets weakly attached to the receptacle. The use of gibberellic acid as a gametocide is routinely used in cultivated types. A similar procedure requires to be evolved to induce male sterility in wild forms to facilitate crossing.