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.