Characterization of a novel form of fertile great headed garlic (Allium sp.)

HIRSCHEGGER, P; GALMARINI, C.; BOHANEC, B

PLANT BREEDING

Año: 2006 p. 1 - 3

0179-9541

A new form of great headed garlic (GHG), was collected, grown and utilized as garlic in the province of Mendoza, Argentina. It was found in contrast to other known forms of GHG that this novel form is fertile, while other characteristics remained unknown. Studies revealed that all accessions investigated formed large bulbs and produced fertile seeds, with a germination rate of around 30%. Genome size analysis and chromosome counting of the GHG accessions, made in comparison with hexaploid forms of GHG, revealed that the accessions were octoploid, with a genome size ranging from 119.5 to 122.4 pg. Preliminary karyotype analysis indicates a possible allopolyploid origin. It is suggested that this fertile accession deserves further attention as a novel source of genetic variation in garlic-like-plants.