This unique work of reference provides quick and easy access to the remarkable diversity of mutant phenotypes expressed by the maize plant. Its major portion consists of over 400 color photographs of well-established mutants arranged by chromosome position, detailed descriptions of the mutants' gene loci, and a current summary of the physical structure of genes that have been characterized at the molecular level. First published in 1968 and long out of print, Mutants of Maize has been entirely revised by three of the corn plant's most distinguished investigators, enlarged to cover twice the number of mutants, and redesigned with clarity and elegance. All maize biologists will want this magnificent book in their personal library. In addition, because mutant maize genes have counterparts in most species, the book can be considered a general guide to the consequences of mutation in the entire plant kingdom. All maize biologists will want this magnificent book in their personal library. In addition, because mutant maize genes have counterparts in most species, the book can be considered a general guide to the consequences of mutation in the entire plant kingdom.

Table of Contents:
Dedication Preface Acknowledgements Contributors Introduction Includes: A history of the Maize Genetic Cooperation and Newsletter. Information about the Maize Genetics Stock Center, Maize Genome Database, and Maize Genetics Conference. The complete text of the Standard for Maize Genetics Nomenclature Chapter One: The Maize Organism Includes: A pictorial description of the maize plant and kernel, followed by a photographic summary of maize megasporogenesis and microsporogenesis. The chromosomes, including mitotic metaphase, pachytene, and the cytological map. The genome, including comprehensive genetic maps with RFLP markers and maps of the chloroplast and mitochondria which present genes that are inherited separately from the chromosomes. The use of B-A reciprocal translocations and genetically marked T-wx translocations that are useful in locating mutants to chromosome, concluding with a two-page diagram showing some possible manipulations of these translocations and a two-page map showing cytological breakpoints, including the breakpoints for 23 wx-linked reciprocal translocations involving the A chromosomes that are used to locate dominant genes. Chapter Two: Color Plates of Mutants Includes: An extensive collection of superb color photographs of almost all of the well-established mutants that could be properly expressed in picture form, arranged as nearly as possible by chromosome position. Descriptions of changes other than single gene mutations, such as chromosome abnormalities, transposable elements, and other non-Mendelian inheritance. Chapter Three: Gene Descriptions Includes: Detailed descriptions of most of the gene loci in maize for which there is a verified mutant. Chapter Four: Tables and Pathways Includes: Summaries of various categories of mutants and interactions between certain groups of genes. A section on B-A aneuploidy. Five biochemical pathways. Chapter Five: Cloned Genes Includes: Current knowledge of the physical structure of genes that have been characterized at the molecular level. Chapter Six: Non-mutation Effects Includes: A brief description of some non-mutation effects to remind the investigator that not all phenotypic oddities are in fact of genetic origin. Chapter Seven: Mutagenesis Includes: A discussion of mutagenesis, an understanding of which is important to the serious study of mutants. References