Evaluation of semi-dwarf mutants in triticale and wheat breeding

Two triticale lines, Beagle and DR - IRA were subjected to either X-rays or E.M.S. and later generation derivatives scored for height and yield. 219 single M2 plant selections were reduced to 18 lines for replicated yield analysis, on the basis of yield in the intervening generations. Higher yielding selections appear to have been isolated; however, they are not notably shorter than the controls. Wheat Composite Crosses have been established based on the X-ray induced nuclear male-sterility mutant 'Cornerstone'. Derivatives, following three rounds of obligatory outcrossing, include high yielding lines. Composite Crosses appear to be more successful if they are homogeneous for a semi-dwarf allele. (author). 5 refs, 5 tabs