4.5 | Utilization of natural hybrids
Heterosis was a very important biological phenomenon that hybrids
surpass parents in individual size, viability, fertility, environmental
adaptability, yield and quality (Shull, 1908). Breeders have long used
heterosis as a means of genetic improvement (Keeble, 1910). In this
study, we found some natural hybrids with good forage traits in plant
height, tillers, and leaf, but the fertility was very low. If these
natural hybrids could be genetically improved to create new forage
varieties, it would have good ecological and economic benefits. We had
found an increase in fertility in hybrid F2(~ 25%). We will continue to self-cross the hybrids to
improve fertility.