In order to determine its genomic constitution, Hystrix duthiei ssp. longearistata was
crossed with Psathyrostachys huashanica. Hybrids were obtained successfully from this combination.
Morphology, fertility and chromosome pairing behavior in meiosis of the parents and their hybrids F1
were investigated. The results showed obvious morphological differences between H. duthiei ssp.
longearistata and P. huashanica, and intermediate spikes of the F1 plants between the two parental
species. The hybrids were completely sterile. Chromosome pairing at MI of PMCs in F1 hybrids was
relatively high and 55.12% of PMCs showed 5 or 6 bivalents per cell. Meiotic configurations were
9.83 Ⅰ + 5.46 Ⅱ+ 0.07 Ⅲ, with C-value of 0. 57, which indicated that H. duthiei ssp.
longearistata and P. huashanica should share one Ns genome. The relationship between Hystrix
and Leymus was also discussed.
