Identification of Australian wheat cultivars by laboratory procedures: grain samples containing a mixture of cultivars

Abstract

Electrophoretic analysis and the phenol test are effective for varietal identification of a whea sample containing a mixture of cultivars. Examination of a wheatmeal sample can provide some information, but checking of individual grains is generally needed. Particularly effective is preliminary screening of many grains by the phenol test, followed by electrophoretic analysis of particular grains. Grain texture (vitreosity) can provide further information. Procedures are recommended for evaluating the statistical significance of identifying a limited number of grains. Application of the tests to all Australian wheat classes for the1972-73 harvest demonstrates the practical value of the methods. The results suggest that segregation according to cultivar was reasonably successful in that harvest.