Discovering ‘Quadrotriticale’: A New Wheat-Triticale Hybrid in Kansas

A new hybrid plant has been discovered in Kansas wheat fields. This hybrid is a mix of wheat and triticale. Inspectors from the Kansas Crop Improvement Association (KCIA) identified it in three locations: Dickinson County, Marion County, and a site in south-central Kansas.

Samples from these sites were examined at the National Agricultural Genotyping Center (NAGC) in North Dakota. The NAGC confirmed that the samples were identical, identifying nuclear genomes of Secale (rye) and Triticum (wheat) species.

Further testing by the Wheat Genetic Resource Center (WGRC) at Kansas State University analyzed the chromosomes of the hybrid. This analysis revealed that the hybrid has 48 chromosomes: 41 from wheat and 7 from rye. This indicates that the hybrid likely resulted from natural crossbreeding between hexaploid wheat and octoploid triticale.

Experts conclude that this hybrid represents the first identification of a wheat x triticale cross. Marion Spiering from KCIA has informally named it “quadrotriticale” to highlight its genetic makeup and distinguish it from commercial triticale varieties.

The seeds collected from this hybrid showed low fertility. It might appear more frequently in areas where farmers use triticale cover crops or save seeds from fields near triticale crops. The quadrotriticale plants are taller than regular wheat, making them easier to spot and remove.

Thanks to careful inspection of certified seed production fields, KCIA can identify and eliminate quadrotriticale plants. KCIA is well-prepared to manage this new hybrid and continue producing high-quality wheat seed.

Acknowledgments:

• Cytogenetic analysis: WGRC at Kansas State University
• DNA sequencing: NAGC, North Dakota
• Seed germination test: KCIA Seed Lab
• Special thanks to Dr. Allan Fritz, K-State Wheat Breeder, for his support.

For more information, contact Marion Spiering, Manager of Field Services and Seed Certification at KCIA, at [email protected].