Cover

Abstract

On the cover

Information on the genes determining grain shape and related traits is important for breeding Fagopyrum species. A seed shape similar to F. esculentum (common buckwheat) is considered desirable, as the current processing technology has been developed to suit common buckwheat seeds. F. tataricum Gaertn. has high nutritional value but needs improvement in the seed shape. Interspecific hybridization is a promising method to obtain seeds similar to common buckwheat, but a strong postzygotic barrier between F. tataricum and F. esculentum makes genetic exchange impossible. F. cymosum, which has a seed shape similar to F. esculentum, provides an additional source of the genetic polymorphisms needed to improve other buckwheat species. In this issue, the effects of interspecific hybridization in the genus Fagopyrum on seed traits are discussed. The photographs show the seed types of F. tataricum and F. cymosum: rice type (top left), round type (top right), notched type (bottom left) of F. tataricum, and F. cymosum (bottom right) (This issue, p. 232–237).

(Ivan N. Fesenko: Lab of Buckwheat Breeding, Federal Scientific Center of Grain Legumes and Groats Crops)