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Studies of inheritance in castor beans have shown that the most 
extreme types of this very variable species will cross with each 
other, giving fertile hybrids, which in some cases are much more 
vigorous and give greater yields of beans. Some forms are de- 
terminate in growth (annuals), while other forms will live for 
many years. The inheritance of the “ non-exploding”’ and “ 
ploding”’ characters of the fruits have been investigated, as well 
as various pattern and color characters of the seeds and stems. 
Studies on peas have resulted in bringing together practically 
all the species, peculiar forms and sub-species, and many of the 
common commercial field and garden varieties of various coun- 
tries. These latter represent types from Abyssinia, Egypt, China, 
Japan, Chile, Persia, and the various European nations. The 
manner of inheritance of a large number of the characters and 
their interrelations with each other have been investigated. The 
relations between the factors so far studied indicate either ex- 
tremely “loose” or very “close” linkage conditions in peas. 
Certain forms when crossed with each other produce semi-sterile 
hybrids,.and these in turn produce progeny (F,) that resemble 
one or the other of the grandparents and are more fertile than 
the I*, parent or are absolutely sterile. Other forms when 
crossed together produce much more vigorous first generation 
progeny and give larger yields. Still other forms when crossed 
produce yields but slightly, if any, above the average of the 
parents. 
Project 2: Geographical distribution and inheritance of cold- 
resistance 
Studies on the’ temperature relations of plants in reference to 
inheritance and geographical distribution have been started. 
Some species appear to produce variants able to cope with lower 
temperatures than the majority of their individuals. 
Plans: 
It is planned to continue the studies along the lines indicated 
above (Projects 1 and 2). 
Personnel for Projects 1 and 2: 
Dr OrLanp E, Wuire, Curator of Plant Breeding and Eco- 
nomic Plants (1924-1927). B.S., South Dakota State College 
