Characterization of two interspecific hybrids of Piper

Abstract

Two interspecific hybrids of Piper, P. nigrum x P. attenuatum and P. nigrum x P. barberi, produced for the first time, were characterized by morphology, anatomy, isozymes, cytology and function (reaction to poilu beetle). The hybrids exhibit distinct morphological and anatomical features. Hybrid-specific bands as well as male-specific bands were observed in the zymograms of the isoforms of three of the four isozymes, peroxidase, esterase and polyphenol oxidase. Paired affinity index of the four enzymes revealed more similarity between the female parents and hybrids than between the male parents and hybrids. The hybrids had the same chromosome number (2n = 52) as their parents. The leaves of the hybrids were less preferred for feeding by pollu beetles when compared with their female parents. Successful hybridization among the three species belonging to the same subgenus Maricha confirms their phylogenic relationship.