Department of Fruit Science, Dr Y S Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan - 173230, H.P.
*Corresponding author: sharmagirish.58@gmail.com
Online published on 4 March, 2015.
Chlorophyll mutations are considered as the most dependable indices for evaluating the efficiency of different mutagens in inducing genetic variability for crop improvement and are also used as genetic markers in basic and applied research. The chlorophyll mutation of various types (variegate, viridis xantha, virescens, lutescens), such as lethal, semi-lethal, as well as non-lethal were observed in apple both after application of gamma rays and chemical mutagens. Cultivars Red Gold and Golden Delicious appeared more sensitive as compared to other three cultivars tested for mutagenesis. The two chlorophyll deficient mutants were identified and these produced similar effects both in vM2 and vM3 generations. The distinguishing characters of mutants and normal plants have been illustrated.
Chlorophyll mutations, Ionizing radiation, Mutants, Mutation efficiency, Mutation frequency, Variegate
