Development of doubled haploid maize lines by using in vivo haploid technique

Abstract

The doubled haploid technology is now an integral component of modern maizebreeding programs. In this study, the maternal haploid induction (gynogenesis)method was used to derive Doubled-Haploid (DH) lines from elite maize germplasmadapted to Turkey. Temperate haploid inducers (RWS, RWK-76, RWS x RWK-76 andWS14) were used as pollinators, and a set of 30 single-crossses (in FAO 650-700maturity groups) were used as source materials. Putative haploid seeds were selectedbased on expression of R1-nj anthocyanin color marker. Highest haploid induction rate(20.42%) was recorded by using RWK-76 as inducer line, and the lowest haploidinduction rate (17.75%) was obtained through WS14. Putative haploid seeds weregerminated and seedlings were treated with 0.06% colchicine + 0.5%dimethylsulfoxide solution. Following transfer of seedlings into the field, 2178 D0plants were obtained out of a total of 3012 treated haploids. Live plants were from89% of 2178 seedlings which are planted to the field. Fertile plants were formed 57%of live plants. Inbreeding was succeeded in 31.23% of fertile plants and only 7.8% ofinbreeding plants were able to produce seeds. Consequently, 27 doubled haploid lineswere developed.