Induced macromutations in horsegram [Macrotyloma uniflorum (Lam.) Verdc]

Genetic variability is the prerequisite for any crop to be improved. Mutation breeding is a best method identified to enhance the genetic variability in crops within short time. Knowing the limited variability in horsegram, present investigation was undertaken for the improvement in this crop by utilizing the variety Dapoli Kulthi-1. To induce variations, gamma radiation (100-600 Gy) and EMS (0.2 to 0.6%) separately and in combination of both were applied and the effect on seed germination as seedling damages were assessed in M₁ generation. With increase in doses of mutagenic treatment, gradual reduction in seed germination, root length, shoot length and seedling height was recorded. In M₂ generation the mutagenic treatments with lower doses were stimulative, while higher doses had inhibitory effect on chlorophyll and morphological mutations. Various viable macro mutations were scored for plant height, primary branches, pods per plant, seeds per pod, pod length, 1000 grain weight and yield per plant in M₂ population.