Triticale (x Triticosecale)

Poaceae family

Triticale is a true artificial cereal (Triticum x Secale), derived via hybridization between tetraploid (AABB genomes) or hexaploid wheat (AABBDD) and rye (RR). Thus, hexaploid (AABBRR) and octoploid (AABBDDRR) triticales have been developed, mostly since the discovery of the chromosome-doubling properties of the chemical colchicine in the 1930s.

Triticales generally have higher yields, superior protein content, and are hardier than wheat. However, worldwide production of triticale has not exceeded 1-2 million ha, with the vast majority of that going to livestock feed, due to cultural preferences for traditional bread wheat. The presence of rye chromosomes tends to decrease the breadmaking quality of triticale. Still, CIMMYT and other international food production organizations are trying to get developing-world farmers to grow more triticale.