Induced genetic variability in M₃ generation of mungbean

Significant genetic variability was induced through use of mutagens (gamma rays & EMS) for quantitative traits in two varieties namely T 44 and PDM 54 of mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek). Comparatively high magnitude of genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variations was recorded for length of pods and seed yield in M, mutant lines of both varieties. Number of seeds per pod and number of branches per plant also showed high magnitude of genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation in T 44 and PDM 54, respectively. Moderate to high estimate of heritability coupled with moderate estimate of genetic advance as percentage of mean were noted for most of the characters in both of the induced populations except number of branches per plant and length of pods in T 44 and days to 50% flowering and number of seeds per pod in PDM 54. Plant height, number of pods/plant, length of pods and seeds/pod showed significant positive association with seed yield in the population derived from both varieties. Length of pods, number of seeds/pod, number of pods per plant and days to 50% flowering contributed direct effect to seed yield in both populations. The direct positive influence of days to maturity and number of branches per plant on seed yield was recorded in the population derived from PDM 54.