Aegilops L.

Abstract

This chapter discusses the classification of the genus Aegilops, and presents a detailed description of its sections and species. It shows the morphology, geographical distribution, ecological affinities, cytology, and cytogenetic aspects of the species. Similarly, the structure and distribution of repetitious DNA in the various species, evolution of the diploid and genome analyses of the allopolyploid species, and relationships between them and to species of Triticum, are presented. The occurrence of gametocidal (GC) genes in species of Aegilops, their mode of action, evolutionary significance, and use in the production of deletion and dissection bread wheat lines, are also being reviewed.