Mutagenic effectiveness and efficiency of ethyl methane sulphonate (EMS) mutagen in linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.)

Abstract

Induced mutation study was carried out to study the mutagenic effectiveness and efficiency ofthe mutagen ethyl methane sulphonate (EMS) in two genotypes of linseed, Him Alsi-2 and Kangra Local. On the basis of survivalpercentage in M1 generation under lab conditionsthe LD50 dose for both genotypes was estimated. Only three doses (one higher and one lower dose to LD50) were selected for raising M2 generation. Effects of these concentrations were studied on various morphological characteristics. Mutagen EMS was effective and efficient in producing chlorophyll and viable macromutations in M2 generation. Three types of chlorophyll mutants i.e. albina, xantha and radina were observed. Different types of alterations in seed color, seed texture, flower shape and plant type were observed. The macromutations although are not very useful for plant breeding but help in determining the effective mutagen doses and have also known to play an important role in evolution. EMS concentrations showing maximum effectiveness and efficiency in both varieties were different indicating varietal sensitivity towards EMS.