Genetic architecture of flowering and maturity in wheat Triticum spp.

Gene action and combining ability for days to flower and maturity were studied in a 7-parent diallel in F₁ and F₂ generations of wheat, which revealed partial dominance. Both additive and dominance components had preponderence in the inheritance of these characters. A symetrical distribution of dominant and recessive genes in the parents was observed. High estimates of narrow sense heritability were obtained for both characters. Use of suitable parental genotypes, e.g. Ajantha and Sonolila, may result in rapid genetic advance for early flowering and maturity in wheat.