Genetic information, especially about the nature of combining ability and type of gene action governing inheritance of important traits are guidelines to a breeder in selecting parents for development of hybrids, varieties and lines. This book is about results of research conducted on non segregating generations (parents and F1s ) and selected segregating (F2) population derived from 12 elite bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes following line by tester mating system. Parameters such as days to flowering and maturity; plant height, number of tillers per plant; peduncle length; spike length; total biomass per plant; number of grains per spike; grain yield per plant; 100-grain weight; and harvest index were analyzed and moreover, rust resistance mechanism was also considered. The objective is to reveal information on extent of heterosis and inbreeding depression; nature of gene action; extent of variability and genetic advance; association of component traits with each other and grain yield; and the way the component traits affect grain yield and finally rust resistance mechanisms. The book is helpful to mid-level researchers and students who seek to know more about wheat.

Bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the most important food crops, feeding about 40 % of the world's population. Genetic improvement in wheat focus on three main areas: enhancing yield, overcoming biotic and abiotic stress and improvement end use quality. Grain size is an important physical indicator of seed quality that affects vegetative growth and is frequently related to yield, market grade factors and harvest efficiency. The grain length, width, and area were associated with a 40% variation in the milling quality of Australian winter wheat cultivars. Grain color is also one of important traits affecting flour yield and quality in wheat. For effective improvement of quality and yield of wheat, a plant breeder must have knowledge of inheritance of quality and agronomic traits.