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Effects of Inbreeding on Fertility in Medicagos sativa L.¹

Seven noninbred alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) clones and 4-plant samples of their Sx progenies were inter-crossed to test the effects of inbreedingo n seed set. Seven levels of inbreeding were studied, ranging from F = 0 to F = 0.306. Inbreeding reduced seed yield by almost one-half when the coefficient of inbreeding of the developing zygote (F_z) equalled 0.06; and five-sixths when F_z equalled 0.30. The relationship between seed yield and the coefficient of inbreeding of the developing zygote (F_z) was nonlinear. The coefficients of inbreeding the female (F), the male (F ), and the developing zygote (F_z) could account for 98.9% of the variation for seed yield amongth e seven levels of inbreeding. Inbreeding in the developing zygote was suggested to be the primary factor limiting the production of self seed in alfalfa.

The seven clones differed greatly in their response to inbreeding.

Key Words: Alfalfa • heterosis • incompatibility • sterility

² Research Agronomist, Crops Research Division, ARS, USDA, Raleigh, N. C. 27607.

Received for publication October 9, 1967.

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