Mapping genes for resistance to sprouting damage in wheat

A series of experiments to investigate the genetic basis of pre-harvest sprouting are reported. The results are combined with previously published studies in a composite genetic map for sprout resistance in hexaploid wheat. Different studies, using classical genetics, aneuploids, chromosome substitutions, or QTL mapping, have identified various regions of the A, B, and D genomes affecting dormancy. Comparisons between the available studies lead to the following conclusions: • Different studies often identify different genetic loci, in part reflecting different sampling from the available gene pool. This implies that many loci are involved in determining resistance, and that new loci may be discovered as the number of mapping studies increases.• There are, however, examples where similar map locations are implicated over different crosses. These may reflect the detection of key resistance genes. • Finally, (genotype × environment) interactions are frequently observed. The implications of these observations for crop improvement and research programmes are discussed.