Question

Write a short note on mutational breeding.

Answer 1

The incorporation of induced mutations in the process of plant breeding to develop new varieties is called mutational breeding. In this process, seeds are treated with a suitable mutagen which may be chemical or radiation (gamma radiation). After the treatment with mutagens seeds are grown in the field and self-pollinated. The obtained progeny will be grown in the next crop season. It results into a mutant line which is used as mutant variety. For example, in mung bean, resistance to yellow mosaic virus and powdery mildew were induced by mutations. Several wheat varieties were also produced using the induced mutation like Sonora-64, Sharabati, Sonora etc.