Kernel hardness and baking quality of wheat — A genetic analysis using chromosome substitution lines

Summary An attempt was made to identify the chromosomal location of genetic control of a few components of wheat quality, using chromosome substitution lines of Cappelle Desprez, Cheyenne, Hope, and Timstein into the recipient variety Chinese Spring.Major factors for kernel hardness and increased baking absorption were found on chromosomes 5D of Cheyenne and Hope, and on 3B, 5D and 7D of Timstein. In Timstein, the presence of one of these chromosomes sufficed to make the wheat kernels hard.Factors for favourable dough properties were identified on a few other chromosomes, different in various varieties. These were 1A of Cappelle Desprez and Cheyenne, 3B of Hope, and 2D of Timstein. All but one of these chromosomes showed an increase in loaf volume to a level in-between those of the recipient variety Chinese Spring and the donor varieties. No relationship was found between kernel hardness and dough-making and baking properties.It was assumed that wheat quality is due to a combination of kernel hardness and favourable dough-making properties. As the genes for these factors are located on different chromosomes, it should not be too difficult to introduce both factors in existing varieties with poor baking properties. In a wheat breeding programme, the quality of new lines can be assessed in a rather simple way by determining kernel hardness and dough stability.