Field evaluation of mutants of sugar cane variety ‘SP 70-1284’ obtained by in vitro mutagenesis

Abstract

In the experimental area of the Campus Tabasco, km. 21, in the state of Tabasco, Mexico, seven mutants of sugarcane obtained from the application of Gamma radiation 60Co were studied. The yield and its components and the percentage of the area affected in the leaf by the rust of the sugarcane (Puccinia melanocephala Syd) were evaluated in field conditions. The variations in qualitative characters using the variety ‘SP 70-1284’ as control were also evaluated. The mutants 3 and 6 presented agricultural performances and resistance to the rust of the sugarcane in upper values to the control. With regard to the infection by the rust all the mutants selected presented levels of affectation lower than the original variety, being emphasized the mutant 7 by its high resistance. The mutants 2 and 3 presented, besides variations in the qualitative characters with regard to the original variety. It is recommended to evaluate the mutants 2 and 3 in tests of agricultural extension by its better integral behavior with respect to the original variety. Key words: field, Gamma radiation, resistance, rust