Genetic analysis of the R-marbled allele in maize (Zea mays L.)

The assumption that the pattern allele R-marbled of maize represents a compound form with more than one component was verified by recombinational analysis, usinga recessive g r-g tester stock. R-mb gave rise to self-coloured exceptions in testcrosses. Progeny testing of these kernels indicated that R-mb has two components — a self-colour component is responsible for anthocyan in pigmentation, while a controlling element, designated as Mb, inhibits the Sc action during the clonal development of the aleurone. Through the recovery of g-Sc cases from the testcrosses, it was as certained that recombination is possible between Sc and the flanking golden plant colour marker g, with the loss of the controlling element.