Introduction of a diverse genetic background of Pyrus into Malus through intergeneric hybridization

Wide hybridizations across species and genera have been employed to enhance agriculturally important traits in crops. Within the tribe Maleae of the Rosaceae family, different genera and species exhibit several traits useful for increasing diversity and gene pool through hybridization. This study aimed to develop and characterize intergeneric hybrid individuals between Malus and Pyrus. Through seed germination, shoot multiplication, and rooting in vitro, acclimatized seedlings showing vegetative growth on their own roots were obtained from crosses of Malus x domestica pollinated by Pyrus communis, P. bretschneideri, and the Pyrus interspecific hybrid (P. communis x P. pyrifolia). Comparative analysis of leaf morphology, flow cytometry, and molecular genotyping confirmed the hybrid status of the individuals. Genome-wide genotyping revealed that all the hybrid individuals inherited genomic fragments symmetrically from the Malus and Pyrus parents. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the development of intergeneric hybrid seedlings between Malus x domestica and P. bretschneideri. Furthermore, the Pyrus interspecific hybrid individual served as a bridge plant for introducing the genetic background of P. pyrifolia into Malus x domestica. The results of this study provided a crucial foundation for breeding through intergeneric hybridization between Malus and Pyrus, facilitating the incorporation of valuable traits from diverse gene pools.