Combined mutagenic ability of gamma ray and EMS in horsegram (Macrotyloma uniflorum (Lam) Verdc.)

Abstract

Two photosensitive and indeterminate varieties of horsegram viz., PAIYUR 2 and CRIDA 1-18 R were utilized for mutagenic study. M2 populations of gamma ray (G) + EMS were statistically analyzed to determine the extent of variability and scope of selection for the trait improvement. In this study, mutant population exhibited considerable variation for most of the traits in comparison with respective controls. The negative shift in mean value was observed for most of the yield components in mutant population of both varieties. Combination treatments viz., G+EMS: 200 Gy+0.3% and G+EMS: 300 Gy+0.3% were found suitable for the improvement of single plant yield in both varieties. Based on the estimates of skewness and kurtosis, the nature of gene action was determined for the traits. Positively skewed distribution with leptokurtic curve was noticed for single plant yield suggesting for adoption of intense selection in existing variability for maximizing the genetic gain.

Keywords

• Horsegram
• Mutant population
• Variability
• G + EMS