Characterization of the Rice Floral Organ Number Mutant fon3

Abstract: A spontaneous rice mutant named floral organ number 3 (fon3) had major mutations in floral organ numbers. Genetic analysis indicated that fon3 acted as a single recessive gene. Microscopic observation showed that the number of floral organs in fon3 increased centripetally. For example, the number of pistils was the more frequently increased than organs in the outer whorls. Homeotic conversion of lodicules and glumes into palea/lemma-like organs was observed in some flowers. Scanning electron microscopy observation showed that the size of flower meristems was maintained the same or similar until the lemma primordium started to differentiate, at which time the floral meristem became enlarged, suggesting abnormal development of the inner whorls of rice florets. The relationship of fon3 with other similar rice mutants is discussed. ( Managing editor: Li-Hui ZHAO)