PJB-2025-107
INDUCING PHENOTYPIC DIVERSITY IN BREAD WHEAT (TRITICUM AESTIVUM L.) FOR IMPROVED YIELD VIA MUTAGENESIS
Sajida Bibi
Abstract
Inducing phenotypic diversity is critical for advancing crop genetics and addressing agriculture challenges. This study investigates novel mutants in bread wheat using gamma rays, Ethyl methane sulphonate and their combination to increase genetic variability, aiming to yield improvement and grain quality. Healthy seeds from three (03) well-adapted cultivars were treated and sown across four generations. Agronomic practices were applied and phenotypic and grain quality traits were observed. The results showed reduced germination rate, stunted growth and altered spike morphology in seedlings of M1 and M2 generation. Finally, thirty (30) promising mutants were selected in M3 generation exhibiting significant variations in morphological features from their parents. Dwarf mutant SE4/12-1 (51.53 cm) reduced height, mutant SG2/12-26 was recorded highest numbers of tillers and mutant genotype SE5/12-7 exhibited the longest spike length (16.0 cm) as compared to parent Sarsabz. Mutants SG4/12-35 and SE2/12-29 had the highest number of spikelets per spike (25.67), while SE5/12-15 recorded the more number of grains (95.67 g). SE5/12-13 produced the highest main spike yield. These findings highlight mutagenesis as an effective tool for broadening genetic diversity and sustainable wheat production.
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