Performance evaluation of induced mutant lines of black gram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper)

Abstract

Present investigation was carried out to explore the possibility of inducing genetic variability for yield and yield contributing traits in well-adapted variety PU-19 of black gram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper) following mutagenesis with methyl methane sulfonate (MMS), sodium azide (SA) and hydrazine hydrate (HZ). A considerable increase in mean values for fertile branches per plant, pods per plant and total plant yield was noticed among the mutant lines in M4 and M5 generations. Estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation, heritability and genetic advance for yield and yield components were also recorded to be higher compared to control. MMS followed by SA and HZ showed highest mutagenic potential for improving total plant yield of black gram var. PU-19. Treatment concentration 0.3% was found to be most effective in generating significant increase in total plant yield of black gram var. PU-19. The increased genetic variability for yield and yield components indicates the ample scope of selection for superior mutants in subsequent generations due to preponderance of additive gene action.

Keywords

• black gram
• mutagenesis
• chemical mutagens
• genetic variability
• yield components