Structural Heterozygosity for Reciprocal Translocations Affecting Chiasma Frequency and Pollen Fertility of a Natural Tetraploid of Anthoxanthum odoratum L. from Northwest Himalayas

An accession-based study carried out on Anthoxanthum odoratum from Kullu district revealed a tetraploid chromosome count of n=10 and the presence of multiple chromosomal associations of up to 10 chromosomes due to structural heterozygosity for reciprocal translocations. Owing to the presence of multivalents, the individuals showed considerable amounts of non-viable male gametes. Structural heterozygosity in the species has also been detected to affect the chiasma frequency significantly, thereby increasing the variability. Similar effects of translocations in increasing chiasma frequency and affecting pollen fertility have been reported by workers in other species.