Diploid-tetraploid crosses as the instrument for obtaining apomictic maize plants

In this paper, the opportunity to reveal pseudogamous apomixis in maize inbred lines when tetraploids are used as pollinators is demonstrated for the first time. Kernels with hybrid endosperm, from which plants of maternal type developed, were obtained in five of ten studied lines. Hybrid nature of these kernels was proven using SDS electrophoresis of endosperm proteins. In addition to apomictic kernels, the normally developed kernels with di-, three- and tetraploid hybrid embryos were obtained.