The discovery of cytoplasmic-genetic male sterility (CGMS) in wild rice (Zizania Dalustris L. (Dore)), together with advances in seed physiology and population improvement, have combined to make production of hybrid wild rice varieties feasible. All genetic components (A, B, and R lines) of a CGMS system have been developed from cultivated wild rice populations. Populations were found to differ in the frequency of sterile cytoplasm (C,) and in the frequency of a male-sterile (non-restoring) nuclear gene (ms). Substantial yield heterosis and improved uniformity were observed in select hybrids compared to a leading open-pollinated population. Pollen flow is adequate to efficiently produce hybrid wild rice planting seed. Future efforts will emphasize testing in more environments, broadening the genetic sampling of existing populations, and scaling up production of superior hybrids identified from initial tests.Applications:Hybrid wild rice varieties will increase yield and quality, stimulate private investment in wild rice improvement, and hasten the domestication of this new cereal crop.
