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Previously identified alleles at quantitative trait loci (QTL) for hybrid seed yield were re-evaluated in the same genetic background (in hybrid combination with the same tester) as the original QTL mapping study and also evaluated in a different genetic background (in hybrid combination with two different testers). The QTL were identified from wide crosses of exotic germplasm sources with spring-type Brassica napus L., in which alleles from the exotic germplasm sources increased hybrid seed yield. Results from the re-evaluation of six QTL, in the same genetic background and hybrid combination, indicate that several of the exotic donor QTL alleles did increase hybrid seed yield and could be successfully used for improving the original single-cross hybrid. However, results from the evaluation of seven QTL (including the same six previous QTL) in a new genetic background, in combination with two new testers, indicate that the exotic QTL alleles were often no different or produced significantly lower hybrid seed yield than the spring QTL alleles. In all studies, the QTL were also very sensitive to environmental interactions. Thus, our results indicate that although these exotic sources contain favorable QTL alleles when introgressed into one spring hybrid background, the effects are not predictive of other genetic backgrounds or hybrid combinations. Although QTL affecting hybrid seed yield have been identified, comparisons of multiple QTL alleles are needed to determine the most favorable allele at each locus. Characterization of QTL complementation across testers will be required to predict their effects in multiple hybrid combinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]