Reprise: Genetics 102
Joe,
Your theory is fundamentally sound biology-wise. Self-pollination of
outbreeding cultivars does indeed increase the chances of accentuating
recessive genes. Knowing what genes are recessive is the trick. I can say
with some certainty that the infamous 'green gene' is indeed one that falls
into this catagory but have not heard of any others that have been
positively and properly identified.
I am skeptical though whether any hybrid vigor can be observed in the AG.
You are correct in stating that crossing two inbred lines would indeed be
the way to prove/disprove this notion. On the upside, little if any inbred
depression has been observed in the cucurbit maximus species through
generations of self or sibling pollination. Such pollination techniques thus
are not detrimental as many people have come to believe. This was one of the
points I was trying to make in my 'AG Genetics Primer' diatribe. Self and
sibbed pollination is in reality a very viable means of perpetuating a
desirable genetic line.
I believe the genetic foundation for generating 1000+ pound pumpkins has
been with us for 10 or more years. Take a look at the humble heritage of the
1007 Brown 2000. I think that increased attention to horticultural detail
over the years is probably just as much if not moreso responsible for the
recent surge in 1000 pound fruit as is genetics. Of course, genetics-based
resources like the AGGC web site (*shameless self-promotion*) have
benefitted many well and have proven themselves invaluable in the promotion
of quality genetic lines.
Keep asking questions, assume nothing, and by all means, enjoy and believe
in what you are doing.
Happy Everything,
Mike
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