Creating new genetic variability in sunflower using induced mutations

Abstract

The objective of the study was to provide new genetic variability in important agronomic traits that can be exploited for improvement of sunflower production. Seeds of eight sunflower inbred lines from gene collection of Institute of Field and Vegetables, Novi Sad were irradiated with gamma rays (γ) and fast neutrons (Nf) and treated in ethyle-methane-sulphonate (EMS) solution. The manifestation of mutations was mostly expressed in M2 and M3 generation. Seven mutants were developed; one early flowering, two short stature and one high, two with higher oil content and one branching. The stable progenies were evaluated in micro-plot tests in M6 generation for seed yield and other traits in comparison with respective original line. Further studies should be focused on testing new mutant lines in hybrid combinations, as well as the determination of inheritance of mutant traits.