Abstract
The aim of our long-term research program is to improve the quality and quantity of amaranth production through mutation breeding using γ-radiation. In this paper, we present the characterization of the new variety ‘Zobor’ of A. hypochondriacus × A. hybridus developed by radiation-induced mutagenesis of hybrid K-433. Multiyear phenotypic characterization of an important yield parameter (1000-seed weight) showed that the studied mutant variety ‘Zobor’ has an advantage in seed weight over the nonirradiated control seeds of K-433 with predictable performance of this yield trait. ‘Zobor’ exhibited changes in seed morphometric parameters, starch particle size, and pasting properties with no change in amylose content and swelling power. Moreover, the seeds of ‘Zobor’ showed the significantly highest folate content among selected amaranth varieties. The mutant variety could, therefore, be interesting for the development of functional foods and as a low-management crop, attractive for cultivation in Europe.
Highlights
Amaranthus is a cosmopolitan genus of annual and perennial plants characterized by high stress tolerance, environmental adaptability, and ability to grow with minimal external inputs
Amaranthus has more than 80 species [2], which are distributed in many parts of the world and can be grouped as grain, vegetable, ornamental, and weed types [3]
The experiments were conducted over four growing seasons, and the data obtained for the mutant variety ‘Zobor’ were compared with the original nonirradiated hybrid K-433 and the other grain genotype Ficha (A. cruentus)
Summary
Amaranthus is a cosmopolitan genus of annual and perennial plants characterized by high stress tolerance, environmental adaptability, and ability to grow with minimal external inputs. Amaranthus spp. as underutilized species have promising economic and nutritional value They are valuable plants with a high content of essential nutrients and potential health benefits for consumers, as well as usability for the preparation of healthy food and food additives, vegetables, beverages, animal feed, pharmaceutical products, and industrial nonfood production of byproducts. The initial material selected for mutagenic treatments must be suitable for the objectives It must have good adaptability and yield potential, and the degree of phenotypic variability in the parent cultivars should be determined before seed treatment. Pseudocereal grains show different external and internal seed architecture with consequent differences in nutrient distribution [30] This characterization can, reveal different and specific microvariations (in seed architecture, shape, color, and weight) within the Amaranthus genus and may be helpful for breeders to select suitable cultivars. The experiments were conducted over four growing seasons, and the data obtained for the mutant variety ‘Zobor’ were compared with the original nonirradiated hybrid K-433 and the other grain genotype Ficha (A. cruentus)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
