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GENETIC EXPLOITATION OF LENTIL THROUGH INDUCED MUTATIONS

J.A. FAZAL ALI AND N.A. SHAIKH

Abstract: Genetic exploitation through induced mutations has been very instrumental in improvement of crops. Genetic diversity in lentil was created in a local variety Masoor- 85 and exotic cultivar ICARDA- 8 by treating with gamma rays ranging from 100–600 Gy. Desirable segregants were selected in M₂ for high yield, earliness and 100 grain weight. These mutants were confirmed for their yield contributing factors and growth behavior in M₃ generation. True breeding lines were evaluated for yield potential. The promising mutant strains giving better yield potential were tested for yield and other agronomic traits in different station yield trials. Mutant strain AEL 49/20 produced highest grain yield in zonal trials conducted under different agro climatic zones in Sindh province. Observing its better performance, AEL 49/20 was promoted in National uniform yield trials, where it ranked first in the province of Sindh. On the basis of outstanding performance it is approved and released as the first lentil variety “NIA- MASOOR -05” in the province of Sindh for general cultivation.  In this study enhancement of genetic potential for improvement of lentil is discussed.

Nuclear Institute of Agriculture, Tando Jam Sindh, Pakistan.