Heterosis in sunflower breeding and its perspectives (review)

Heterosis is a manifestation of increased hybrid vigor, usually observed in the first generation. In sunflower hybrids, as well as in many other cross-pollinated agricultural crops, heterosis is achieved by crossing maternal cytoplasmic male-sterile lines with pollen fertility restorers. Numerous data on the study of heterosis phenomena in this crop are given. Interrelations of economically useful traits in parental lines and their hybrids are shown. Genome sequencing is one of the most promising methods of developing highly productive sunflower hybrids.